Essex County authorities announced that Mr. Marquise Smith, 26, of Newark has been arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit robbery, conspiracy to commit murder and felony murder for the fatal shooting of Agustin “Orlando” Pichardo, of Newark.
Officials said it is alleged that Smith fatally shot Pichardo during an attempted robbery on Saturday, April 17, on the 100 block of 7th Street.
The victim and another male relative were at a property owned by Pichardo doing maintenance when Smith allegedly attempted to rob them at gunpoint.
During the robbery attempt, Smith allegedly shot Pichardo.
The victim was transported to University Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 2:13 pm on Saturday.
Smith is currently in custody at the Essex County Correctional Facility.
These are accusations, all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they enter a guilty plea or are found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The ongoing investigation is being handled by the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force, which includes detectives from the Newark Police Department.