Crime
Newark Police Officer Killed in the Line of Duty, Second Officer Injured in North Ward Shooting
A 14-year-old suspect was also killed in the incident, sources said.
It is with profound sorrow that the Newark Police Department announces the line-of-duty death of one of its officers, whose name is being withheld at this time out of respect for the family.
Newark Police Officer Killed in Line of Duty Identified as 25-Year-Old Joseph Azcona
The tragic incident occurred on Friday evening when two officers responded to a ShotSpotter activation in Newark’s North Ward.
The officers were met with gunfire, leaving one fatally wounded and the other with non-life-threatening injuries.
A 14-year-old suspect was also killed in the incident, sources said.
The suspect fired around 29 shots, sources said.
According to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, the shooting remains under active investigation, as officials work to determine the precise circumstances of the attack.
Preliminary reports indicate that at approximately 6:20 p.m., officers responded to a ShotSpotter alert detecting 18 rounds fired in the area of Broadway and Carteret.
Upon arrival, the officers were ambushed by gunfire, prompting an urgent call for backup from law enforcement units across the city.
One officer sustained a gunshot wound to the head and, despite the efforts of emergency medical personnel, succumbed to his injuries at University Hospital.
The second officer was wounded but is in stable condition.
Following the shooting, detectives secured the crime scene, blocking off the intersection of Broadway and Carteret as authorities processed evidence and gathered witness statements.
Officials have confirmed that one suspect is in custody and is believed to be the shooter. However, investigators have not yet disclosed a potential motive or whether additional suspects were involved.
The Newark Police Department, city officials, and the community mourn the loss of a dedicated officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the city.
Further details, including the officer’s identity and arrangements for memorial services, will be released in coordination with the officer’s family.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. The public is urged to contact law enforcement with any information that may assist in the case.
This remains a developing story, and updates will be provided as more details emerge.
BARTOW, FL — Authorities are investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred at 120 Polk Street East in Bartow.
The incident resulted in three individuals sustaining gunshot wounds, including a Bartow Police Department (BPD) officer, a public safety aide (PSA) officer, and the suspect involved.
Emergency medical services were immediately requested at the scene to provide critical aid to all three gunshot victims.
The conditions of the injured individuals have not yet been released.
The circumstances leading up to the shooting remain under investigation.
Law enforcement officials have secured the area as forensic teams and investigators begin processing the scene.
Additional information, including the identities of those involved and any potential charges, is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
Authorities are asking the public to avoid the area and allow emergency crews to continue their response efforts without obstruction.