New Jersey Police Officer Killed, Second Injured in Shooting by 14-Year-Old/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ A Newark police officer was killed and another was wounded Friday evening after a 14-year-old opened fire on law enforcement officers during an illegal weapons investigation. Detective Joseph Azcona, 25, was fatally shot before stepping out of his vehicle. Five people were arrested, including the teen suspect, who was charged with murder. Authorities continue to investigate the shooting, which took place in a busy commercial area of Newark.
Newark Police Shooting: Quick Look
- Deadly Ambush
- Detective Joseph Azcona, 25, shot and killed before exiting his vehicle.
- A second officer was wounded but is in stable condition.
- Teen Suspect in Custody
- 14-year-old shooter arrested, charged with murder.
- Four other individuals detained for questioning.
- Chaotic Scene
- Gunfire erupted in a busy Newark commercial area.
- Witnesses described a volley of gunshots as officers responded.
- Family and Community in Mourning
- Azcona, a five-year police veteran, was promoted to detective two years ago.
- Newark Mayor calls shooting a “callous disregard for humanity.”
- Investigation Ongoing
- Authorities are questioning suspects and reviewing evidence.
- A single firearm has been recovered from the scene.
Deep Look: Teen Gunman Kills New Jersey Officer in Newark Shooting
Teen Gunman Opens Fire on Officers in Newark
Detective Joseph Azcona, 25, was fatally shot before he could exit his vehicle, authorities said. Another officer was also struck, but survived with non-life-threatening injuries.
“He didn’t even get a chance to step out of the vehicle before he was struck,” said Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda.
The shooting unfolded around 6:37 p.m. near Broadway and Carteret, a busy commercial district lined with fast food restaurants and businesses. Witnesses recalled seeing officers running down the street before hearing a series of gunshots.
“It sounded like a car accident, then boom, boom, boom,” said local resident Randy Mejia.
Arrests and Charges: 14-Year-Old Facing Murder Charges
Following the attack, five people were taken into custody, including the 14-year-old shooter, who was wounded in the confrontation.
“The suspect was shot but survived,” said Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stevens II.
The teen faces charges of murder, attempted murder, and possession of illegal firearms. Authorities have not yet released his name, citing his status as a minor.
Four other individuals are currently being questioned, but their involvement remains unclear.
Officer Azcona Remembered for His Dedication
The fallen officer, Joseph Azcona, was a five-year veteran of the Newark Police Department and had been promoted to detective two years ago.
“This is a heinous, callous disregard for humanity,” said Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, condemning the attack.
Azcona’s family gathered at University Hospital in Newark, where he was pronounced dead at 2:30 a.m. His mother, father, and brother were at his bedside, mourning his tragic loss.
Investigation Ongoing as Newark Mourns
Authorities are still piecing together the events leading up to the shooting. So far:
- A single firearm has been recovered.
- Police have not yet disclosed a motive.
- It remains unclear how the 14-year-old obtained the weapon.
The second wounded officer’s identity has not been released, but officials confirmed he is recovering in stable condition.
What Happens Next?
- Police continue questioning the four other suspects.
- Funeral arrangements for Detective Azcona will be announced soon.
- Authorities will investigate how the teen suspect obtained the gun.
