Crime
18-year-old Brandyn Waters killed in Newark shooting
A mass shooting in Newark’s Roseville section late Monday night left one young man dead and four others injured, according to officials with the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office.
The incident occurred around 11:40 p.m. on June 23 at 367 6th Avenue West, near 13th Street, after Newark police responded to reports of gunfire and a large, disorderly crowd in the area.
Upon arrival, officers discovered five individuals suffering from gunshot wounds in what authorities described as a chaotic and violent scene.
One of the victims, 18-year-old Brandyn Waters of Paterson, was found with a gunshot wound to the chest.
He was immediately transported to University Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
The four additional victims—two 19-year-old men, a 24-year-old, and a 26-year-old—were also taken to University Hospital for treatment.
Officials stated that some of the victims were in serious condition, though their current statuses have not been released.
Witnesses at the scene reported hearing numerous rounds of gunfire, describing the moment as terrifying and sudden.
Several vehicles parked nearby were left riddled with bullet holes, indicating the intensity of the shooting and raising concerns about public safety in the area.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Task Force is leading the investigation, which remains active.
As of Tuesday morning, no arrests have been made, and a motive has not yet been determined.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward as they work to identify those responsible for the deadly violence.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation develops.
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama — A 35-year-old man has died after being shot inside a residence in Birmingham early Thursday morning, prompting a homicide investigation by local authorities.
The victim was identified as Ralen Jerean McCurdy, according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office. McCurdy was found unresponsive inside a home in the 4300 block of 12th Court North after police responded to reports of gunfire and an injured person shortly after 1:40 a.m.
Despite the response from emergency personnel, McCurdy did not survive his injuries. Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service personnel pronounced him dead at approximately 2:04 a.m.
According to authorities, officers assigned to Birmingham Police Department’s South Precinct were dispatched to the area shortly after 1:40 a.m. Thursday following a ShotSpotter alert and a report of an injured individual.
When officers arrived at the residence, they discovered McCurdy unresponsive inside the home. Emergency responders subsequently confirmed his death at the scene.
The circumstances leading up to the shooting have not yet been publicly established.
Birmingham police detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding McCurdy’s death. Authorities have not announced any arrests, and no suspect information or possible motive was included in the details released.
Investigators will continue working to determine what happened inside the residence and identify anyone who may have been involved. Additional information may be released as the investigation progresses.
McCurdy’s death marks Birmingham’s fourth homicide since Saturday, according to the information provided. The latest fatal shooting adds to a difficult stretch for the city and leaves another family grieving the loss of a loved one.
At 35 years old, McCurdy’s life ended in a violent incident that remains under investigation. His death is a painful loss for his family, friends, and everyone who knew him.
As detectives continue their work, loved ones are left to remember McCurdy while waiting for answers about the circumstances that led to his death.
May Ralen Jerean McCurdy rest in peace. May his family and friends find strength, comfort, and support during this heartbreaking time.