Marcus Wright, the man accused of murdering a gas station clerk in Edison nearly five years ago, appeared in court on Tuesday. Prosecutors allege that Wright, 27, walked into the Speedway Mart on Amboy Avenue on December 20, 2018, fired a gunshot, and demanded money from the clerk, John Bertram, 38. Bertram was shot and killed during the incident.
During the trial, Bertram’s lifelong friend, Andrew Fitzsimmons Jr., expressed his desire for justice and described the incident as senseless. Bertram’s mother, who attended the court proceedings, reacted emotionally as photos of her son’s body were shown to the jury.
A coworker of Bertram testified that he had dropped candy and was on the ground behind the counter when the shooter entered the gas station. This clumsiness likely saved his life as the suspect did not notice him. An investigator also testified about the discovery of fake fingernails at the crime scene and in a car searched in South Carolina, which prosecutors claim belonged to Wright and his girlfriend, who allegedly served as his getaway driver.
While awaiting extradition to New Jersey, Wright allegedly killed his cellmate during a fight in South Carolina in 2019. His girlfriend, who was implicated in Bertram’s murder, is expected to testify after accepting a plea agreement that will result in a 15-year prison sentence.
Wright’s attorney declined to comment during the court proceedings. He is facing multiple charges, including murder, weapons offenses, and robbery. If convicted, he could face life in prison without parole.
