Paterson, NJ – A 16-year-old juvenile has been charged in connection with a shooting that left a Paterson man wounded in Prospect Park, Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Prospect Park Police Chief William Rausch announced.
The juvenile is charged with acts of juvenile delinquency that, if committed by an adult, would constitute second-degree aggravated assault, second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon, and second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.
Police responded at approximately 3:29 p.m. Thursday to the area of Hopper Street and Fairview Avenue after receiving reports of a shooting.
Victim transported to hospital
When officers arrived, they found a 20-year-old man from Paterson suffering from a non-fatal gunshot wound.
The victim was transported to St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson for treatment.
Investigators also secured what they described as a potential crime scene in the area as detectives began processing evidence.
Investigation identified juvenile suspect
According to the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, the investigation determined the 16-year-old juvenile was responsible for the shooting.
Because the defendant is a juvenile, the case has been referred to the Passaic County Family Court, Juvenile Part, for further proceedings.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the shooting and are asking anyone with additional information to contact the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office tips line at 1-877-370-PCPO or email tips@passaiccountynj.org.
As with all juvenile delinquency complaints, the charges are accusations, and the juvenile is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
