Edwin Merlino, 21, and Alexander Martinez, 18, were charged with attempted murder after allegedly stabbing an East Windsor man.
A file photo of Hightstown police cars. HIGHTSTOWN — Two men were arrested and charged with attempted murder after allegedly stabbing an East Windsor man early Wednesday morning, police said.
Edwin Merlino, 21, and Alexander Martinez, 18, allegedly flagged down the victim, who had just dropped off another person behind the Westerlea Arms Apartments just before 3 a.m., police said in a news release today.
The victim, Dario Mogrovejo, 37, does not drive an officially designated taxi but may have been operating his vehicle as a taxi, Sgt. Benjamin L. Miller said.
When Mogrovejo stopped his car, Martinez allegedly opened the passenger-side door, demanded money and stabbed Mogrovejo in the head, chest, arms and hands. Merlino also stabbed and punched Mogrovejo, the release said.
Mogrovejo was able to drive himself to the police department and was taken to Capital Health Regional Medical Center in critical condition.
He underwent surgery and is expected to survive, the release said.
Merlino and Martinez were arrested at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday and charged with attempted murder, robbery, aggravated assault, unlawful possession of a weapon and possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes.
Merlino was also charged with contempt of court for three outstanding warrants issued by Hightstown Borough municipal court for $500, North Brunswick court for $1500 and New Brunswick court for $800.
Martinez was also taken to Capital Health Regional Medical Center and treated for injuries he received during the alleged attack.
When officers went to arrest Martinez they found him in possession of items recently reported stolen in the borough, the release said.
He was additionally charged with possession of stolen property, criminal trespass and obstructing the administration of law.
Both men are being held at Mercer County Correction Center on $1 million bail each.
Contact Alyssa Mease at amease@njtimes.com or (609) 989-5673.
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