Crime
10-Year-Old Jordan Among Two killed in Newark Shooting
Law enforcement officials are investigating a tragic shooting in Newark’s South Ward that left two people dead—including a 10-year-old boy—and wounded three others on Saturday evening.
According to Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II and Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda Sr., officers responded to reports of gunfire in the 300 block of Chancellor Avenue at approximately 7:00 p.m.
Upon arrival, responding units located multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
The victims included 10-year-old Jordan and a 21-year-old woman, both of whom were transported to University Hospital, where they were later pronounced deceased despite emergency medical intervention.
Three additional individuals — an 11-year-old boy, a 19-year-old man, and a 60-year-old man — were also transported to the hospital.
All three are reported to be in stable condition.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force is leading the investigation.
Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive or whether any suspects have been identified.
Officials confirm the case remains active and ongoing.
Essex County Sheriff Amir Jones has announced a reward of up to $10,000 through the Essex County Crime Stoppers Program for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the case.
Residents or witnesses with any information related to the shooting are urged to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Tips Line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC. Callers may remain anonymous.
Authorities continue to urge the public to come forward to assist in bringing justice to the victims and their families.
Christian County, Mo. — Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop as Richard Bird.
At the time the Blue Alert was issued, the suspect had not yet been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck along State Highway 160 near Highlandville.
During the stop, the suspect allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding the deputy before fleeing the scene.
The suspect was reported to have traveled southbound on Highway 160 following the shooting.
Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a black 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck equipped with a silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch. The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
A statewide Blue Alert was issued to notify the public and assist in locating the suspect.
Law enforcement officials urged residents not to approach the vehicle or suspect if located, but instead to immediately call 911 and provide detailed information while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is situated south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area that sees significant travel due to its proximity to the Ozarks.
Multiple agencies across the region coordinated efforts in response to the alert.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the status of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and the community as they continue to pursue justice in the case.