By: Richard L. Smith
Authorities in Passaic County have arrested a 28-year-old Paterson man in connection with a shooting that claimed the life of another city resident last week.
According to information released by Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Paterson Police Officer-in-Charge Patrick Murray, Edwin Betancur, 28, of Paterson, was arrested Saturday, October 24, following an investigation into the killing of Joshua Fernandez, 27.
Officials said the shooting occurred on October 21, at approximately 4:58 p.m., near the intersection of Butler Street and Sparrow Street.
As officers responded to reports of gunfire, they learned that Fernandez had suffered a gunshot wound to the chest and had been transported by private vehicle to St. Joseph’s University Medical Center.
Fernandez was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Investigators with the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office and Paterson Police Department subsequently identified Betancur as the alleged shooter.
Authorities said Betancur was taken into custody without incident on October 24.
He faces charges of first-degree murder, second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon, and second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.
Prosecutors intend to seek pretrial detention, with a Superior Court hearing to be scheduled.
The murder charge carries a potential sentence of 30 years to life in prison if Betancur is convicted.