By: Richard L. Smith
A man was critically injured in a shooting that erupted Thursday evening in Newarkâs West Ward, prompting an active investigation led by the city's shooting response team.
According to the initial investigation, multiple gunshots rang out around 6 p.m. near the intersection of Valley Street and Sunset Avenue.
When officers arrived, they discovered an unconscious male at the scene suffering from a gunshot wound to the head.
The victim was rushed to a nearby hospital. Authorities have not yet released details on his condition, but it is considered 'life-threatening'.
Our information center has also learned that a teen boy entered University Hospital, around the same time, suffering bullet wounds, and is possibly linked to this shooting incident.
Witnesses told police that a male suspect, described as a Black man wearing a gray sweatsuit, was seen fleeing eastbound on Valley Street shortly after the shooting. He is believed to be the gunman.
The Essex County Prosecutor's Office is leading the investigation, which remains active and ongoing.
As of Friday morning, no arrests have been made.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.