By: Richard L. Smith
Residents of Newark’s South Ward flooded social media late Tuesday night with questions about a heavy police presence on Renner Avenue. 
According to a statement released this morning by the Newark Police Department, the activity stemmed from a call involving a man reportedly armed with a firearm, which escalated into a confrontation with a crowd.
Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda said officers responded to the 200 block of Renner Avenue around 10:45 p.m. after receiving reports of an armed individual.
Police detained a man who matched the suspect’s description for questioning, but tensions quickly rose as a crowd formed and opposed his detention.
During the commotion, police say a woman struck an officer in the face while another officer was scratched.
Additional units were called to maintain order, leading to a brief scene of heightened police activity that drew significant attention from nearby residents.
According to Newark Police, the woman was arrested and charged with two counts of aggravated assault on a police officer, resisting arrest, and participating in a riot.
A man at the scene was also taken into custody and charged with aggravated assault on a police officer, resisting arrest, and participating in a riot.
The situation has since been brought under control, and authorities confirmed no firearms were discharged during the incident. 
Newark Police officers continue to demonstrate professionalism and restraint during heightened situations.
Police emphasized that their swift response and added reinforcements were necessary to ensure safety in the area.