Washington Township couple assaulted, robbed after being followed home from Philly

WASHINGTON TWP., N.J. (WPVI) -- A neighbor's camera captured terrifying screams from Frank Manfredi's fiancée as armed suspects assaulted and robbed him outside their home in Washington Township, New Jersey.

"It's a horrific experience, and I wouldn't wish this on anybody," said Manfredi.

Manfredi said he exited his Mercedes in his driveway on Eton Drive around 11:30 p.m. Sunday.

Shortly after, video shows he was ambushed by two attackers wearing dark clothing and a mask.

"He pulled out his Glock gun and hit me on the top of the head. I had a gash on the top of the head, blood running down my face. He said, 'Don't you move. I will shoot you dead right here.'"

Police said Manfredi's fiancée was held at gunpoint and ordered to remain silent.

"You're thinking is this it? Is this where it ends here, and I'm thinking about my fiancée," said Manfredi.

Manfredi said the suspects ran away with his Rolex watch and wallet filled with cash and credit cards. Police said they jumped into a getaway vehicle at Eton and Joseph drives.

"It's sad that the crime from Philly is coming to New Jersey," said Manfredi. "My house is so lit up. I can't imagine anybody would want to come in front of my house and think they're going to get away with something like that."

Washington Township Police Chief Patrick Gurcsik said license plate readers reveal the suspects' vehicle was last seen heading towards Philadelphia, where the incident began. The couple went to Parc, the Ritz-Carlton and walked around the city before driving home. Manfredi said he had no idea he was being followed.

"In front of TGI Fridays on (State Highway) 42 southbound, we're able to see our victim's vehicle, Mercedes-Benz, enter Washington Township at 11:20 p.m., followed by another vehicle," said Gurcsik. "Further up 42, another license plate reader, they turn onto Fries Mill Road, and the suspect vehicle is still following our victim."

Gurcsik said they're working with Philadelphia detectives to locate the criminals and their vehicle, which police believe is stolen.

He said this is an isolated incident, but urges residents to know their surroundings.

"Keep your head on a swivel. Never become too complacent, and obviously watch your back and don't get distracted," said Gurcsik.

Detectives believe the suspects are from Philadelphia, and they have some leads that they're actively investigating.