Applebees
Applebees

Shots fired outside North Jersey Applebee’s, teen suspect arrested with two guns

LINDEN, NJ — A 17-year-old was arrested after shots were fired outside an Applebee’s restaurant in Linden just after midnight on Sunday, prompting a police response and a continuing investigation, authorities said.

Key Points

  • Shots were fired after a group chased a victim out of a Linden Applebee’s early Sunday.
  • A 17-year-old Newark male was arrested nearby; two firearms were recovered.
  • Police continue to search for the remaining suspects.

Linden Police said four males entered the Applebee’s at 671 W. Edgar Road and chased an individual out of the restaurant. Once outside, multiple gunshots were fired, though no injuries were reported. The suspects fled the scene.

Officers responding to the area located two individuals matching the suspects’ descriptions near W. 15th Street and S. Stiles Street. As police approached, both suspects attempted to flee. After a brief struggle, one suspect—a 17-year-old from Newark—was taken into custody. Officers recovered two handguns during the arrest.

Juvenile complaints were filed against the teen for aggravated assault and two weapons charges. He was transported to the Essex County Juvenile Detention Facility and is awaiting a Family Court appearance.

The remaining suspects are still at large, and the Linden Police Juvenile Aid Bureau continues to investigate the incident.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

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