A former firefighter from Maine has been arrested after allegedly attempting to kill his ex-girlfriend’s family following their breakup. Armed with firearms, a bulletproof vest, and large-capacity magazines, Brian Lanzim, 37, traveled from Maine to South Toms River, New Jersey, to confront his ex-girlfriend after she ended their relationship.
The Breakdown and Threats
Lanzim’s ex-girlfriend, a woman from Toms River with whom he shares two children, reportedly ended their relationship over a FaceTime call. Following the breakup, Lanzim allegedly made multiple threatening statements, including telling her, “You don’t know crazy yet,” and “If I can’t have you, no one can.”
In response, the woman filed for a temporary restraining order against Lanzim, who reportedly followed up with disturbing text messages threatening her family. These included messages like, “If your father is there, I’m going to have to take him out,” and “If you stand between me and my kids, I’m going to do what I need to do.”
Lanzim’s Armed Journey to New Jersey
Authorities say Lanzim’s threats escalated when he decided to drive from Maine to New Jersey, allegedly with the intention of harming or killing his ex-girlfriend’s family to gain custody of their children.
Assistant prosecutor Mara Brater described Lanzim as “ready for war” and confirmed he was carrying two firearms, a bulletproof vest, and 15 large-capacity magazines in his vehicle.
Prosecutors also noted Lanzim had been “spiraling out of control” since losing a job he had relocated to Maine for the previous September. His defense attorney, Marissa Koerner, argued that Lanzim’s bipolar disorder and ongoing psychiatric treatment had contributed to his mental health crisis, which was exacerbated by the breakup.
Confrontation and Shooting
When Lanzim arrived at his ex-girlfriend’s parents’ home in South Toms River on April 29, police officers had already been alerted and were waiting for him. Lanzim allegedly drove his vehicle across the front lawn before heading toward the officers, who sought cover behind a fence. Lanzim then exited his vehicle and attempted to enter the locked home.
As Lanzim tried to breach the residence, South Toms River Sgt. Muhammad Ali confronted him. After Lanzim ignored commands to “put it down,” officers shot him in the pelvis and hand. Lanzim was disarmed and transported to the hospital. During the confrontation, Lanzim was heard crying and stating, “I lost her” and telling his ex-girlfriend and children that he loved them.
Legal Consequences and Investigation
Lanzim faces several charges, including three counts of attempted murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, unlawful possession of weapons, unlawful use of body armor, burglary, terroristic threats, and 22 counts of possession of large-capacity ammunition magazines.
Following his hospital stay, Lanzim was admitted to the Ocean County Jail on May 4, where he remains without bail while awaiting his next court date.
The investigation into the April 29 incident is still ongoing, with authorities continuing to piece together the details of Lanzim’s actions and intentions.
Domestic Violence Support
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides confidential assistance 24/7 in over 170 languages. Call 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org for more information.
