A tragic shooting in Newark, New Jersey, on Saturday evening left two people dead, including a child, and injured three others, two adults and another child, in a shocking act of violence that has shaken the community. The incident occurred in the Chancellor Avenue area near Wainwright Street, drawing a massive law enforcement response and leaving neighbors and local families in deep shock.
According to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, Newark police officers were dispatched to the scene around 7 p.m. after receiving reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers discovered multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Two of the victims, a 10-year-old boy and a 21-year-old woman, were immediately transported to University Hospital. Tragically, both were pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The authorities have not yet released their names, citing ongoing investigations and family privacy.
Three additional victims were also found at the scene: an 11-year-old boy, a 19-year-old man, and a 60-year-old man. All three sustained injuries and were also taken to the hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition. The exact severity of their wounds has not been publicly disclosed. Authorities have not yet determined the motive behind the shooting, whether the victims were known to the shooter, or if any suspects have been taken into custody.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that it is actively investigating the case and plans to provide a formal update during a news conference scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday. Investigators are reviewing evidence collected at the scene and speaking with potential witnesses in an effort to understand the circumstances that led to this violent act.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy expressed his concern on social media platform X, stating that he had been briefed on the situation. “Please pray for the victims and their families,” he wrote, urging the public to support those affected by the tragedy.
Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka also issued a statement, describing Saturday as “a dark and devastating day in Newark.” In his message, Mayor Baraka vowed that authorities would work tirelessly to pursue justice for the victims and their families. “We will not rest until there is justice for the parents and families left behind in unspeakable pain and grief,” he said. “Newark will work tirelessly with the prosecutor’s office, state law-enforcement, and federal agencies to ensure justice is served. We urge the killer to turn himself in, as there is no safe place to hide. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and everyone affected by this trauma. Our prayers are with them – and our actions will support them.”
The shooting prompted a significant police presence in the neighborhood, as a large portion of Chancellor Avenue was blocked off for evidence collection late into Saturday night. Red cups were placed on the sidewalk to mark shell casings, a visual reminder of the violence that had occurred. The sight of so many officers and forensic teams left many residents shaken and anxious about their safety.
“It’s disturbing,” said Lamonte Vaughn of the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery. “These family members are absolutely traumatized by what happened to their loved ones, and therefore we need to be there for them as well.” Local residents echoed these sentiments. One father, who works in the area, said, “As a father I feel bad, sad. I don’t want to hear news like that.”
While the shooting has left the community reeling, Newark Police data shows that incidents of gunfire in the area have actually decreased in recent years. Precinct 5 has reported 33 shootings so far in 2025, marking a decline compared to previous years. Nevertheless, the tragedy highlights ongoing concerns about community safety and the impact of violence on families and neighborhoods.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office continues to ask anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 1-877-847-7432. Authorities have also announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to an arrest.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, and more details will likely emerge as authorities work to piece together what led to this devastating event. In the meantime, community members, local leaders, and officials are grappling with grief, fear, and the urgent need to support those most affected by this heartbreaking violence.
Noelle Lilley contributed to this report.