Manhunt Intensifies: Fugitive Douglas Cobb Still at Large

Douglas Cobb Manhunt Intensifies as Investigators Uncover New Details in Fatal Wawa Shooting Case TOMS RIVER, N.J. — The search for Douglas Cobb, the 51‑year‑old fugitive accused of fatally shooting Bruce Gress, 42, outside the Wawa at Route 37 and Garfield Avenue, continues to widen as authorities release new details and update the public on the rapidly evolving investigation.

Cobb—also known as Douglas Green and by the nickname “Bootknock”—remains at large nearly two weeks after the September 18 shooting. Law enforcement agencies across multiple states are now involved in the manhunt, including the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, Toms River Police, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force.

What Happened at the Wawa?

Investigators say Cobb allegedly shot Gress in the head shortly before 7:30 a.m. following a brief argument near the gas pumps. Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts reportedly captured the confrontation and the single fatal shot. Gress was airlifted to Jersey Shore University Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead within an hour.

Authorities have issued an arrest warrant charging Cobb with murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, unlawful possession of a weapon, and being a certain person not to possess a weapon. His name has been entered into the NCIC database.

Cobb was last seen driving a black 2016 Acura MDX, NJ plate T93YJL.

New Developments: Associates Charged, One Surrenders

Four individuals have been charged with hindering Cobb’s apprehension, accused of helping him flee Toms River and evade authorities:

• Ronald Hagan, 50, Brick Township – previously a fugitive; surrendered to police on Sept. 28.
• Sylvester Green, 43, Bayville – arrested and held pending a detention hearing.
• Cherice Nicholson, 46, Howell – arrested and held pending a detention hearing.
• Jennifer Rizalvo, 48, Lakewood – charged by summons and released pending court appearances.

Mugshots – TomsRiver.org

Affidavits and investigative documents reveal that Cobb’s associates allegedly drove him to multiple locations, provided false statements, retrieved his belongings, and even transported him out of state toward Delaware or Virginia as the manhunt expanded.

Prosecutor Billhimer emphasized that these arrests “send a powerful message” that anyone helping Cobb evade capture will face consequences.

Police Surround Cobb’s Home — But He’s Gone

On September 20, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Cobb’s McKinley Avenue home in Toms River. Despite a heavy police presence, Cobb was not found. Witnesses reported officers searching the property for nearly an hour.

Authorities have since released a recent body‑camera image of Cobb from June 2026 to aid the public in identifying him.

Where the Manhunt Stands Today

As of the latest updates:

• Cobb has been missing for more than a week.
• Investigators believe he may have traveled out of New Jersey, possibly into Delaware or Virginia.
• Multiple agencies continue to track leads, review surveillance footage, and interview witnesses.
• Authorities warn the public not to approach Cobb, who is considered dangerous.

Public Asked to Help

Officials urge anyone with credible information to contact:

• Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit: 732‑929‑2027
• Toms River Police Department: 732‑349‑0150

They also encourage anyone who knows Cobb personally to urge him to surrender peacefully.

Legal Reminder

All charges against Cobb and the four individuals are allegations. Each person is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.