By: Richard L. Smith
Newark authorities have launched an active investigation after shots were fired near the Newark Police Academy in the city’s South Ward Sunday afternoon.
According to preliminary information, gunfire erupted around 2 p.m. in the vicinity of 695 Bergen Street, prompting a heavy police response.
Members of Newark's Shooting Response Team quickly arrived at the scene and established a crime scene perimeter.
Upon arrival, officers discovered multiple shell casings and a vehicle that had been struck by bullets. 
Police secured the Newark Police Academy as a precaution and canvassed the surrounding neighborhood for potential victims or additional evidence.
Shortly after the incident, two victims entered a city hospital with a male shot in the arm. They are believed to be connected to the shooting.
Area hospitals had already been placed on alert for other possible walk-in gunshot victims.
The suspect fled the area and remains at large. The investigation remains ongoing.