Newark, NJ – A Newark man has been convicted of murder in the fatal shooting of a 20-year-old city resident following a brief jury deliberation, Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II announced.
On July 16, a jury found Wadi Brown, 34, guilty of first-degree murder, second-degree unlawful possession of a handgun, and second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. Jurors reached the verdict after approximately three hours of deliberations following the trial in Essex County Superior Court.
Prosecutors detailed fatal confrontation
During the trial, Assistant Prosecutors Meredith Mona and Sarah Simon proved that Brown and 20-year-old Keion Alston, both of Newark, met on Bergen Street on May 10, 2025, before walking to Harding Terrace.
Witnesses testified the two men argued before Brown fired six shots at Alston, striking him in the back. Alston died from his injuries, according to prosecutors.
The case was tried before Superior Court Judge Patrick J. Arre.
Prosecutors say verdict brings justice
Following the conviction, Assistant Prosecutor Meredith Mona acknowledged the impact of the verdict on the victim’s family.
“While nothing can bring Keion Alston back, we hope this verdict provides his family with a measure of closure and justice,” Mona said.
Assistant Prosecutor Sarah Simon said the conviction reflects the office’s continued focus on prosecuting violent crime.
“The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office remains committed to seeking justice for victims of violent crime and holding those responsible fully accountable. This verdict reflects that commitment,” Simon said.
Brown is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 17. He faces a potential sentence of 30 years to life in New Jersey State Prison.
