Newark, New Jersey — A mass shooting Saturday night in Newark’s South Ward left a 10-year-old boy and a 21-year-old woman dead, while three others, including another child, sustained injuries, according to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office. The tragedy unfolded around 7 p.m. on Chancellor Avenue, prompting an immediate response from law enforcement.
In addition to the deceased, an 11-year-old boy, a 19-year-old man, and a 60-year-old man were injured in the incident. Reports indicate that these victims are now recovering but have not yet been publicly identified.
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka condemned the violence, describing it as “depraved and senseless.” In a statement issued late Saturday, Baraka emphasized the urgency of collective action in the face of gun violence. “There is no explanation on Earth that could come close to justifying this shooting,” he said. “This is a vivid reminder that there is so much more work we must do. No one is exempt from doing their part to help and heal one another.”
The investigation into the shooting remains active, with authorities withholding further details as they gather more information.
Despite this incident, recent data from the Newark Public Safety Collaborative showed a significant decrease in violent crime throughout the year. Homicides in the city fell by 22%, aggravated assaults dropped by 15%, and robberies decreased by 37% between January and late October.
Lamont Vaughn, who leads Newark’s Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery, stated that his department is actively supporting victims’ families and urged parents to engage in preventive measures against gun violence. He stressed the importance of community involvement, saying, “Don’t wait for it to hit your doorstep. Let’s be proactive instead of reactive.”
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy also weighed in on social media, asking the community to pray for the victims and their families. His call for support highlights the emotional toll such incidents have on affected families and the community at large.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the Essex County Sheriff’s Office announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of those responsible. Authorities are encouraging anyone with relevant details to reach out to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Tips Line. All tips will be kept confidential as the investigation continues.