NEWARK, NJ – A tragic shooting unfolded in Newark Tuesday evening, leaving the city in mourning after a police officer was killed and another gravely injured. The incident has shocked the community, especially with the alleged shooter being just 14 years old.
The chaos erupted near the intersection of Carteret Street and Broadway, a typically bustling area now marked by police tape and flashing lights. According to sources, the young suspect was reportedly involved in a confrontation with law enforcement, resulting in a deadly exchange of gunfire.
Witnesses described a sudden burst of gunshots that shattered the evening calm. “It sounded like fireworks at first,” said a local resident. “Then I saw the police rush in, and I knew something terrible had happened.”
Authorities confirmed that the shooting took place around 6:37 p.m., with the scene centered between a McDonald’s and a White Castle. A backpack was among the evidence collected by investigators, hinting at the chaotic moments leading up to the tragedy.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office has taken the lead on the investigation, working alongside federal agencies like the ATF to piece together the events. Multiple suspects were taken into custody, though it remains unclear how many are still being sought.
Governor Phil Murphy urged the public to support the officers and their families during this difficult time, calling for prayers and solidarity. “Our officers risk their lives every day to protect us,” he said. “This is a rapidly developing situation, and we must stand together.”
The Newark police community is reeling from the loss. Fellow officers gathered at University Hospital, where one of their own remains in critical condition. The fallen officer’s sacrifice underscores the risks faced by those who serve and protect.
As the investigation continues, the city grapples with the unsettling reality of a teenager allegedly involved in such a violent act. The incident raises questions about youth violence and the factors leading to such tragic outcomes.
As night fell, the scene remained active, with investigators working tirelessly to uncover the full scope of the incident. The community, meanwhile, is left to mourn and seek answers in the wake of a senseless act of violence.