By: Richard L. Smith
A massive police response is underway in Newark’s South Ward this evening after a burst of gunfire left about 6 people injured, including a child around the age of 11-year-old.
According to preliminary information, just after 7:00 p.m., multiple rounds triggered the city’s ShotSpotter detection system near Chancellor Avenue and Leslie Street.
When officers arrived, they located as many as four victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
Police said one victim sustained a severe gunshot wound to the head, while an 11-year-old boy was found with a gunshot wound to the stomach.
The conditions of the two additional victims have not yet been confirmed.
Two additional victims have walked into nearby Beth Israel Hospital making it a total of 6 victims.
Authorities immediately secured the area, calling for citywide assistance to help manage the scene and maintain public safety as detectives began gathering evidence.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office has been notified, though officials say there are currently no confirmed fatalities.
All victims were rushed to University Hospital, where their conditions remain undisclosed.
This is an active and rapidly evolving investigation.
Newark officials are urging residents to avoid the area as police continue to piece together the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
RLS Media will provide updates as soon as more information becomes available.