Paterson, New Jersey – A tragic incident unfolded in Paterson as a 22-year-old man was charged with the murder of his own cousin. The Passaic County prosecutors brought forth charges against Darwin Estrada-Cruz in connection with the killing of 31-year-old Jorge Estrada-Cruz.
Authorities stated that the arrest of Darwin Estrada-Cruz took place just hours after Jorge Estrada-Cruz was discovered unresponsive in a house located on Straight Street and 16th Avenue. Upon responding to reports of a disturbance in the area at around 2 a.m. on Monday, Paterson Police Department officers found Jorge Estrada-Cruz unresponsive inside a basement apartment.
The circumstances surrounding the death of Jorge Estrada-Cruz remain unclear at this time. However, Darwin Estrada-Cruz now faces a first-degree murder charge, carrying a potential sentencing range of 30 years to life imprisonment.
Individuals who possess any additional information regarding this tragic incident are urged to reach out to the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office tips line at 1-877-370-PCPO, send an email to tips@passaiccountynj.org, or contact the Paterson Police Detective Bureau at 973-321-1120.
This devastating event has sent shockwaves through the Paterson community, leading authorities to prompt anyone with relevant details to come forward. As the investigation unfolds, residents are encouraged to assist law enforcement in seeking justice for the untimely loss of Jorge Estrada-Cruz. The case serves as a somber reminder of the importance of cooperation between the community and law enforcement in solving and preventing such tragedies from occurring.