The Eleventh New Jersey · Congressional District 11 Morris · Essex · Passaic
The Eleventh

Wayne

Barnes & Noble and Tony Boys plan Wayne expansions as police investigate burning car

New retail openings are scheduled for Wayne in late 2026, while local authorities continue investigations into a fatal fire near the mall and other recent violent incidents.


Barnes & Noble has announced plans to open its third location in Passaic County with a new store coming to Wayne. The retailer intends for this 22,000-square-foot facility to begin operations in 2026 as part of the chain's broader expansion strategy.

This development marks a significant addition to the local retail landscape and represents the third Barnes & Noble location within Passaic County specifically.

New Retail Arrivals

In parallel with the bookstore announcement, Tony Boys Sandwich House is preparing to open its first Passaic County location in Wayne this fall. The sandwich chain continues to expand its footprint across New Jersey by targeting this specific market for growth.

Residents can expect two distinct new business options arriving within a year of each other as these chains execute their regional plans.

Recent Safety Incidents

Local police and the Medical Examiner's Office are currently investigating an incident where a dead body was found in a burning car near Wayne Mall. Officials confirmed that this investigation is underway following the discovery at the scene close to the shopping center.

In another recent event, authorities reported that a man stabbed a 62-year-old individual in the head and neck during what police described as a domestic dispute. The suspect was charged with attempted murder along with several weapons charges related to this violent encounter.

These incidents highlight ongoing public safety concerns for residents living near major commercial hubs like Wayne Mall or within residential neighborhoods where disputes can turn deadly.

Investigation Details

Separate from the mall incident, officials in a gated North Jersey neighborhood reported that a car explosion injured one man. A highly volatile accelerant was discovered inside the trunk of the vehicle involved in this blast.

Federal Bureau of Investigation agents are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the car explosion and the presence of the explosive material found by first responders.

The involvement of federal authorities suggests the complexity or potential severity of the incident involving the volatile substance used to cause the explosion.

Community Context

While these serious incidents unfold, local residents continue their daily routines which include managing household logistics such as pet care during moves. One resident recently sought advice on boarding cats in Wayne and surrounding towns like Ringwood while moving out of state for 26 days between houses.

The request highlighted the need for animal services in areas including West Milford, Wanaque, and Morris Cat Inn locations near Wayne to assist families transitioning homes.

This everyday challenge contrasts sharply with the high-profile criminal investigations currently occupying local law enforcement resources across the district.

Questions residents are asking

When will the new Barnes & Noble store open in Wayne?

Barnes & Noble plans to open its 22,000-square-foot Wayne location in 2026. This date is part of their expansion schedule for adding a third Passaic County store.

Is the car explosion near Wayne Mall connected to other crimes?

The sources do not state any connection between the burning car with a dead body found near Wayne Mall and the separate gated neighborhood car explosion. Each incident is being investigated independently by local police or federal agents.

What charges were filed in the domestic dispute stabbing?

Police charged the man involved in the domestic dispute with attempted murder for stabbing a 62-year-old victim. He also faces several weapons charges related to the attack on the head and neck.

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