By: Richard L. Smith
Two people are dead and five others remain hospitalized following a mass shooting that erupted in a Paterson neighborhood Sunday night, according to information released by the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office.
Authorities said gunfire rang out shortly after 8:20 p.m. near Rosa Parks Boulevard and Godwin Avenue, sending Paterson police officers rushing to the scene as dozens of rounds echoed through the neighborhood.
Due to the chaotic and dangerous conditions, multiple law enforcement agencies, including the New Jersey State Police, Clifton police, sheriff’s officers, and other surrounding departments, responded to assist with crowd control and securing the area.
Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Paterson Police Department Officer-in-Charge Patrick Murray said officers arrived at approximately 8:26 p.m. and found six victims suffering gunshot wounds.
The victims were transported to Saint Joseph’s University Medical Center for treatment.
Officials said a 43-year-old Paterson man and a 29-year-old Paterson man later died from their injuries.
The remaining victims, all Paterson residents, are reported to be in stable condition.
Earlier preliminary reports indicated as many as seven victims may have been struck during the shooting as investigators worked through a large and active crime scene packed with residents gathering in the area.
Police taped off multiple blocks while detectives collected evidence and searched for suspects connected to the violence.
Authorities have not announced any arrests, and a motive for the shooting remains under investigation.
The investigation is active and ongoing. Additional information will be released as it becomes available, according to the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office.