By Robert Florida
Newark – An Essex County jury has convicted Ryan Mwangi, 31, of Newark, of murder for fatally shooting Kenneth Thomas.
On May 13, 2019, Thomas, 31, of Newark, was gunned down while sitting in his car on Renner Avenue, Newark. Thomas suffered eight gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead on the scene.
Mwangi fled the scene in a stolen BMW. Extensive investigation led to the charging and apprehension of Mwangi.
On January 26, 2024, a jury found Mwangi guilty of first degree Murder, second degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, and second degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose. Mwangi is scheduled to be sentenced before Judge Patrick Arre on March 22, 2024. Mwangi faces 30 years to life in prison.
“The jury’s verdict has brought justice to Kenneth Thomas and his family,” said Assistant Prosecutor Jacqueline Bilinkas, who tried the case with Jenna Ventola, also an Assistant Prosecutor. “Finding him guilty and holding him responsible for his actions will hopefully deter others from committing senseless acts of violence.”
Mwangi has two additional open cases in Essex County, one for Attempted Murder and Weapons Offenses and another for Simple Assault. He has prior felony convictions for Aggravated Assault and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.
