Newark police officer killed in gunfight with 14-year-old suspect

NEWARK, N.J. — A Newark police officer was shot and killed, and another was critically wounded in a shooting Friday evening, authorities said.

Correction: This report was published moments after the incident, and incorrectly stated that the 14-year-old was also killed. This turned out to be incorrect. The boy was arrested.

The shooting occurred around 6:20 p.m. near Broadway and Carteret Street in the city’s North Ward after officers responded to a ShotSpotter alert detecting 18 gunshots, according to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office. When police arrived, they encountered gunfire, prompting an immediate call for backup.

One officer sustained a fatal shotgun wound to the head and was transported to University Hospital, where they were later pronounced dead, according to the New Jersey State Policemen’s Benevolent Association. The second officer was critically injured but is expected to survive, prosecutors said.

Initial reports indicate the suspect fired approximately 29 rounds. The suspect has been arrested and is believed to be involved in the shooting, though investigators are still determining their role.

Community leaders, including Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka, have expressed condolences following the tragedy. The officers’ identities have not yet been released as law enforcement continues to investigate.

Authorities are examining the involvement of multiple juvenile suspects as the investigation into the deadly Newark shooting continues.

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