Gunfire Erupts Near Newark Central Ward Library, Community Center

By: Richard L. Smith 

A shooting incident near a Newark community center and public library disrupted the Central Ward Friday night, prompting a swift police response and ongoing investigation.

According to authorities, the incident occurred around 10 p.m. after a ShotSpotter device alerted police to gunfire on Hayes Street, near the NCC Community Recreation Center and the Newark Public Library.

Responding officers arrived quickly and secured the area. 

While shell casings were found at the scene, a search around the library and recreation center revealed no victims.

Newark’s Shooting Response Team was called to lead the investigation. The suspect fled the scene before police arrived and remains at large.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Newark Police Department as the investigation continues.