Newark police search for suspect who stole vendor’s van ahead of Latin Festival
Newark, NJ – Authorities are asking for the public’s help identifying a man who stole a vendor’s van filled with festival supplies in the early morning hours of August 16.
Police say the green 2002 Ford Econoline was parked in the 800 block of Mt. Prospect Avenue around 11 p.m. Saturday. By the time the owner returned at 7:30 a.m. Sunday, the van — and all of its contents — were gone.
Inside the vehicle were items intended for use at the Latin Festival on Bloomfield Avenue, including two generators, two steam tables, two deep fryers, three propane tanks, folding tables, and cases of soda.
Detectives reviewed surveillance video from the area, which showed a male suspect entering the van at about 4 a.m. before driving away northbound on Mt. Prospect Avenue. He is described as having a light complexion and wearing a blue shirt, blue jeans, brown shoes, and a baseball cap.
Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda, Sr. urged anyone with information to call the 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477). Tips may remain anonymous and could be eligible for a reward.
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Key Points
- A green 2002 Ford Econoline van was stolen from Mt. Prospect Avenue in Newark on August 16
- The van was loaded with equipment and supplies for the city’s Latin Festival
- Police released surveillance details and are asking for public help to ID the suspect