By: Richard L. Smith
A violent and tragic evening took place in Newark’s South Ward on Friday as an 8-year-old boy lost his life to gun violence, leaving a community shaken and authorities in an urgent search for the shooter.

According to officials, gunfire erupted just before 5:44 p.m. near 180 Osborne Terrace, triggering a ShotSpotter alert that brought multiple police units rushing to the scene.
Officers arrived to find the young child suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, alongside an adult male who bullets had also struck.
Both victims were rushed to the hospital by police, but despite the efforts of medical personnel, the 8-year-old boy was pronounced dead a short time later.
The adult male remains hospitalized in serious but stable condition.
The Newark Police Division is working alongside the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office in the investigation, as detectives piece together the circumstances of this devastating crime.
Community in Mourning, Authorities Seeking Justice
As word of the shooting spread, neighbors and local officials expressed their shock, grief, and frustration over yet another act of violence claiming the life of an innocent child.
The Essex County Sheriff’s Office has announced a $10,000 reward for any information leading to the capture of the person or persons responsible.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and call 1-877-TIPS-4-EC.
The investigation, led by the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, remains active and ongoing.
Police have not yet disclosed any details about potential suspects, and the community remains on edge as officials work to investigate the tragic incident.