Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray announced today that a 13-year-old boy was fatally shot in the 300 block of South Orange Avenue in Newark late last night.
At approximately 11:30 PM police responded to a report of shots fired. The victim, who sustained multiple gunshot wounds, has been identified as Dante Young, 13, of Newark. He was transported to University Hospital and pronounced dead at 11:40 p.m. The homicide is believed to be a targeted attack prompted by a prior argument.
The homicide is actively being investigated by the Essex County Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force.
Newark Police Director Samuel DeMaio offered his condolences to the family of the victim who are coping with the pain of this loss.
“As the Newark Police Department continues to address the concerns of our citizens of this great city, we encourage residents to partner with us. In regaining the safety of our streets, we have to be vigilant in holding criminals responsible for their actions. The public can play a role in this endeavor, if someone saw something I urge you to use the anonymous tip line to help us bring the person responsible for this horrendous crime to justice,’’ said Director DeMaio.
Anyone with information is urged to call the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office tips hotline at 1-877-847-7432.
