In Blackwood, New Jersey, a family dispute took a lethal turn, leading to the death of 65-year-old Lillian Doran and the arrest of her son, 30-year-old James Doran, now charged with first-degree murder.
On Saturday, March 2, 2024, police were summoned to the Doran residence on Fairmount Avenue after receiving reports of a deceased female. Upon arrival, they discovered Lillian Doran with fatal injuries consistent with blunt force trauma to the head.
The deadly incident reportedly originated from a disagreement between James and Lillian Doran over James’ desire to cut a tattoo from his leg, which intensified into a violent confrontation. Witnesses reported hearing disturbances and the sound of a garage door opening in the early hours before police arrived at the scene.
The investigation quickly zeroed in on James Doran, who had fled the home in New Jersey.
Pennsylvania State Police apprehended Doran in Bedford after he was detected speeding at 112 mph in a Hyundai Elantra that was determined to be associated with the Gloucester Township homicide over 200 miles away from the crime scene. The incident occurred around 5 p.m.
According to a Pennsylvania news outlet, Doran attempted to evade police by stopping the vehicle and fleeing on foot into nearby woods but was soon captured by the authorities.
State troopers described Doran as being drenched in blood and exhibiting erratic behavior. He allegedly declined to reveal his identity, and officers noted the smell of alcohol on his breath. Despite the presence of three visible alcoholic drinks in his mother’s car, Doran reportedly refused to undergo a legal blood alcohol test.
Located in the trunk of the car was a baseball bat, although it has not been confirmed as the weapon used in the murder.
The suspect now faces over a dozen charges in Bedford County, including DUI, reckless endangerment, and evading arrest, in addition to the murder charge in New Jersey. His preliminary hearing was set for March 13, with bail denied pending extradition to face the charges in his home state.