Bruce Gress Obituary, Death – Toms River Man Killed in Shooting at 42

Bruce Gress, 42, of Toms River, New Jersey, died on September 18, 2026, after being shot at a Wawa convenience store in Toms River. His unexpected death has left his family, friends, and loved ones mourning his loss.

According to Toms River Township police, officers responded at approximately 7:20 a.m. to the Wawa located at Route 37 and Garfield Avenue following a report of a shooting. When officers arrived, they found Gress suffering from a gunshot wound to the head.

Gress was transported by emergency medical personnel to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, where he was later pronounced deceased.

Authorities subsequently identified Douglas Cobb, 51, of Toms River, as the person accused in connection with Gress’s death. Cobb was charged with murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, unlawful possession of a weapon, and certain person not to possess a weapon.

As of September 18, Cobb had not been taken into custody and was considered a fugitive. Authorities issued an arrest warrant for him.

The investigation and legal proceedings remain separate from the grief now facing Gress’s family and friends. Those who knew Bruce are left remembering his life and the moments they shared with him.

His loved ones will continue to hold onto those memories as they navigate the difficult days following his sudden death.