By: Richard L. Smith
Authorities in Essex County are investigating a fatal shooting that took place just steps away from a school in Newark’s South Ward, forcing students to flee for safety during dismissal.
Gunfire erupted shortly before 4 p.m. in the 800 block of South 17th Street, prompting a large police response.
When officers arrived, they discovered multiple shell casings and two men who had been struck by bullets.
Essex Prosecutor’s Office officials said in a statement that one of the victims, identified as 26-year-old Mr. Karon Gray, who lived at the nearby address where he was found, suffered a gunshot wound to the abdomen.
He received CPR at the scene before being transported to University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 4:30 p.m.
A second male victim sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to his arm.
Officials said he fled the scene and was later found nearby on South 16th Street.
According to witnesses who spoke with RLS Media, a man was seen fleeing the area on a dirt bike moments after the shots were fired.
Authorities believe he may be responsible for the shooting, although no arrests have been made.
The gunfire broke out just as students were walking home from a nearby school, causing panic among children and families. 
Some students reportedly ran for cover as the sound of gunshots echoed through the neighborhood.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office said the investigation is active and ongoing.