Authorities Urge Vigilance as Homicide Investigated

ESSEX FELLS—As the investigation continues into the possible homicide of an Essex Fells man, authorities announced late Thursday afternoon the residence on Fells Road where the body of Robert Nevius, 91, was found appeared to be ransacked.

According to the Essex County Prosecutor's Office, the home at 238 Fells Road where Nevius had lived for 50 years had no signs of forced entry, but authorities urge area residents to be "vigilant" and to report any suspicious activity.

Nevius, who was married, was found alone and unresponsive at the residence by Essex Fells police who went to check on him at the request of a relative at 8:40 a.m.

The Essex County Prosecutor's Office and the Essex Fells Police Department are investigating the case, which is being treated as a homicide, Acting Essex County Prosecutor Robert Laurino said in a statement.

The next of kin have also been notified, according to Laurino, who said more details will be released following an autopsy, which is scheduled for Friday.

According to Katherine Carter, a spokeswoman for the prosecutor's office, the case is being considered a homicide but the autopsy will confirm if the man was murdered and determine the exact cause of death.

Since the investigation is ongoing, Carter could not comment why authorities believe it was a homicide.

Authorities have remained on the scene with a portion of Fells Road closed near the home in the 200 block.

Officials from the Caldwell and West Caldwell police departments said they have not been involved with the investigation, but will offer assistance if needed.

Noah Cohen contributed to this report.