A devastating event took place in Newark on Friday evening, as a 14-year-old suspect engaged in a gunfight with law enforcement, leading to the death of one officer and critically injuring another. The incident happened around 6:30 p.m. in the vicinity of a local fast-food establishment where the teenager was reportedly socializing with friends.
The young suspect is alleged to have fired a total of 29 rounds at the officers. Both officers were hit by the onslaught of bullets and were promptly rushed to University Hospital. The New Jersey State Policemen’s Benevolent Association has confirmed that one officer is in critical condition and fighting for his life.
There are conflicting reports about the fate of the teenager involved in the shooting. Some sources suggest that the young suspect was killed during the incident, while others report that he was apprehended. The suspect was reportedly part of a large group that had congregated at the fast-food restaurants before the incident. The circumstances that led to the gunfight remain unclear.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy expressed his concern about the incident, calling on the public to pray for the injured officers, their families, and all law enforcement personnel who risk their lives to ensure public safety. The New Jersey Fraternal Order of Police also expressed their grief over the incident, recognizing the courage of the officers involved and the ultimate sacrifice made by one of them.
In the wake of the shooting, several individuals were detained by the Newark Police. However, it remains uncertain whether these individuals were directly involved in the incident or were simply present at the scene. The Newark Police Department and the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office have not yet commented on the incident.