By: Richard L. Smith
According to information released by the Belleville Police Department, officers are actively supporting the Newark Police Department in an ongoing investigation surrounding a series of recent shootings that began in Newark and have, at times, crossed into Belleville’s jurisdiction.
The latest incident occurred on the night of July 21, 2025, around 10:41 p.m., when Belleville Police were alerted to a possible shooting near 70 Watchung Avenue.
Officers quickly responded to the scene and, after being provided with a suspect description, initiated a foot pursuit along Franklin Street. With help from nearby law enforcement agencies, the suspect, identified as 33-year-old Ibn Williams of Newark, was taken into custody behind 191 Franklin Street.
A firearm was also recovered during the arrest.
Shortly after, officers discovered a male gunshot victim on Salter Place in neighboring Bloomfield.
The man had sustained a gunshot wound to the left hand and was transported to Clara Maass Medical Center in stable condition.
Investigators later determined that the shooting had taken place within Newark’s Stephen Crane Housing Complex. Both the suspect and the victim reportedly fled the area and entered Belleville after the incident.
Several .22 caliber shell casings were recovered on Watchung Avenue as part of the investigation.
Belleville Police emphasized that the shooting originated in Newark and that their department is serving in a support capacity as part of a coordinated, multi-agency response. Newark Police have not yet released an official statement.
This is not the first time Belleville has responded to spillover violence connected to the Stephen Crane Housing Complex. On July 11, a Belleville officer on patrol reported hearing gunfire from the complex, prompting an immediate alert to Newark Police.
Days later, on July 14, Belleville officers were again called to assist with a report of shots fired near 84 Watchung Avenue.
A canvass of the area turned up no evidence, and the units were later cleared.
Belleville officials reaffirmed their commitment to public safety and said they will continue working alongside Newark Police to help protect residents in both communities.
Further updates are expected once Newark Police issue an official statement.