Newark – Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray and Newark Police Director Eugene Venable announced today that the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office and the Newark Police Department are in the preliminary stages of investigating the shooting of a Newark police officer.
“First and foremost we are relieved that there has not been any loss of life. We expect the officer and the suspect to recover. While the investigation is ongoing, one thing is clear, police officers put their lives on the line everyday for the people who live and work in this city. And, the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office will continue to collaborate with the Newark Police Department to ensure the city is a safer place,’’ said Acting Prosecutor Murray, commending the Newark Police Department.
Early this afternoon a Newark police officer was injured while responding to an apparent robbery in progress. The preliminary information indicates officers were alerted to an incident in a retail establishment in the 300 block of Clinton Avenue. As officers approached the store, there was a confrontation with an armed suspect.
A 19-year veteran of the Newark Police Department sustained non-life threatening injuries. The suspect was also shot. He is hospitalized at University Hospital and is under armed guard. He is expected to be charged later today, said Chief Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Fennelly.
Police Director Venable said members of the community played a key role in bringing this incident to an end. They alerted the police to a possible robbery; they held the suspect and they rendered aid to the officer.
“With the help of the community, police were able to quickly locate the officer and the suspect effectively stopping an incident that could have been a lot worse,” said Police Director Venable. “I thank the community and hope for continued support to as we go forward in our quest to improve the quality of life for all citizens and visitors of the great city of Newark,” he added.
All police-involved shootings are investigated by the Essex County Prosecutors Office.
Additional information will be released when it becomes available
Community Steps in to Assist Authorities Apprehend Suspect Accused of Shooting Police Officer
Newark