By: Richard L. Smith
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation into a deadly and grim shooting incident late Saturday night near Branch Brook Park, an incident that has shaken the community with its sheer scale of violence.
According to preliminary information, the shooting erupted just before midnight on August 2 near 312-316 Bloomfield Avenue in Newark.
Residents reported a barrage of gunfire so intense that many repeatedly dialed 911, fearing for their lives as the chaos unfolded outside.
Law enforcement sources told RLS Media that at least three individuals exchanged high-caliber gunfire, with ShotSpotter devices initially registering 40 rounds before eventually losing count amid the relentless blasts.
By the time police arrived and secured the area, investigators recovered nearly 83 spent shell casings scattered across the street, a chilling indication of the firepower unleashed.
When officers reached the scene, they discovered two victims struck by bullets.
One of them, identified by The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office as 33-year-old Mr. Alvis Jottanael Perez-Lirlano of Elizabeth, was rushed to University Hospital but tragically died from his injuries at 6:53 a.m. Sunday.
The second victim remains in stable condition.
Officials have not confirmed whether Mr. Jottanael Perez-Lirlano was among those involved in the gunfire exchange or if he was an innocent bystander.
The site of the shooting sits near a section of Branch Brook Park notorious for late-night violence. Local business owners voiced renewed concerns about a nearby establishment that has drawn scrutiny in the past, as the immediate area has seen deadly stabbings and multiple shootings over the past year.
Officials have not disclosed details about what sparked the gun battle, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Authorities urge anyone with information about this incident to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office as they continue to piece together what led to this horrific outburst of gunfire.