By: Richard L. Smith
Newark Police are asking for the public’s help identifying a suspect captured on surveillance video firing multiple gunshots behind a city strip mall earlier this year.
According to information released by Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda, Sr., the incident occurred at approximately 11:41 p.m. on February 27, 2026, in the 100 block of Avon Avenue.
Police were dispatched to the area after Newark’s ShotSpotter system detected gunfire.
When officers arrived, they searched the area and recovered six 9mm shell casings near the loading area of a strip mall.
Investigators reviewing surveillance footage reportedly observed the suspect walking into the rear parking lot of the shopping center before firing several rounds into the air and fleeing the area.
Police said the individual was wearing a dark-colored jacket and pants, light-colored shoes and a backpack.
No injuries were reported in connection with the gunfire.
Director Miranda is urging anyone who recognizes the suspect or has information that could assist investigators to contact the Newark Police Division’s 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS.