By: Richard L. Smith
Essex County Prosecutor officials reported today that Mr. Michael Townsend Jr., 31, of Newark, has been arrested and charged with the murder of Mr. Jabari A. Mason, 31, of Newark.
According to Essex County Prosecutors Office Spokesman Robert Florida, on Friday, at 11:27 a.m., police responded toa report of a victim lying inside the parking garage on the 400 block of Mt. Prospect Avenue in Newark.Police found Mason suffering from apparent stabwounds.
Officials said Mason was pronounced dead at the scene at 11:40 a.m.
On Sunday, March 12, officials said Townsend was arrested in Newark and charged with murdering Mason.
He was also charged with Unlawful Possession of a Weapon,and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose.
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 investigation is active and ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office tips line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432. Calls will be kept confidential.