Our community witnessed a moment of relief and celebration Thursday morning as Atlantic City Police Sgt. Christian Ivanov was released from AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center, more than two weeks after he was critically injured in the line of duty.
Ivanov, a member of the Atlantic City Police Department's SWAT team and father of three, exited the hospital to applause from local officers and an escort from the honor guard. The emotional scene marked a significant milestone in his recovery after he sustained life-threatening injuries during a shooting on the afternoon of Monday, June 2, 2026.
The incident occurred when Ivanov and fellow officer Robert Reynolds were serving a search warrant in the 100 block of North Florida Avenue. Both officers were struck by gunfire during the operation. While Reynolds was released from the hospital the next day, Ivanov's injuries were far more severe, requiring intensive care treatment.
According to Atlantic City police, 52-year-old Donald Gardner, also known as Donald Capriotti, shot at the officers during the warrant service. Mayor Marty Small Sr. indicated that one officer was struck near his head and was fortunate to be wearing a helmet at the time. The New Jersey Attorney General's Office reported that Reynolds returned fire, shooting Gardner.
Following the shooting, Ivanov was immediately taken to the intensive care unit, where he remained in stable but serious condition. His release Thursday represents a remarkable recovery after spending more than two weeks hospitalized with critical injuries.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers our local law enforcement officers face while protecting our community. The outpouring of support from fellow officers and the community throughout Ivanov's recovery underscores the strong bonds within Atlantic City's police family and the gratitude residents feel for those who serve.
This remains a developing story as Ivanov continues his recovery and the investigation proceeds.
About the Author
Karen Johnson
With over 30 years of news experience in major markets like Los Angeles, Denver, and Columbus, Karen now covers our area for South Jersey NewsBeat. She also brings her articulate and conversational news delivery to WOND radio listeners every weekday. Her background includes work with the NBC Radio Network, and she thrives in fast-paced news environments.
