Newark Police Shooting Update: Cop Killed, Boy Charged
Authorities provided an update after two Newark Police officers were shot, one fatally. A 14-year-old boy is now charged with murder, and the community shared words of heartbreak and anger.
What Happened
The two Newark police officers were shot around 6:37 p.m. in the area of Broadway and Carteret. They "didn’t even get a chance to step out of the vehicle before he was shot," officials said. A 14-year-old boy and four others are now in custody.
Tragic Consequences
Both cops were taken to University Hospital, where 26-year-old Officer Joseph Azcona, a five-year-veteran of the force, was pronounced dead. Azcona’s family and five brothers were by his side when he died Saturday morning, and he was posthumously promoted to detective. The other officer is in critical condition, and his name has not yet been released.
Investigation Ongoing
Police are now trying to determine why a 14-year-old boy had a gun and thought he could use it against the police. He was charged with murder and attempted murder and suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities could not confirm whether police discharged their firearms. All guns involved in the incident have been confiscated.
What We Don’t Know
The circumstances around the shooting are also unclear. The shooter’s name will not be released, as he is a minor. Police also have not released the names of the other individuals charged.
Reactions
"We here at the NJ State PBA are heartbroken to share that an officer from Newark PD has made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, and another officer is currently fighting for their life in critical condition," the New Jersey State PBA said in a post on Facebook. "Please keep their families, fellow Newark PD officers, and our entire New Jersey law enforcement community in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time."
North Bergen Police released a statement on Instagram offering their condolences, stating, "We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Newark Police Department and the family of Officer Joseph Azcona, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Another officer remains in critical condition. Our sincerest sympathies go to his family, friends, and loved ones. May he rest in peace."
Conclusion
The incident has sent shockwaves throughout the community, with many expressing their condolences and outrage on social media. As the investigation continues, the community is left to grapple with the devastating loss of life and the senseless act of violence.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened during the shooting?
- The two Newark police officers were shot around 6:37 p.m. in the area of Broadway and Carteret.
- Who was killed in the shooting?
- 26-year-old Officer Joseph Azcona, a five-year-veteran of the force.
- What is the condition of the other officer?
- He is in critical condition.
- What is the age of the 14-year-old boy charged with murder?
- 14 years old
- What is the current status of the investigation?
- Ongoing, with authorities trying to determine the circumstances of the shooting and the motive behind it.
