Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray and Newark Police Director Samuel DeMaio announced today that a 16-year-old juvenile and 18-year-old Isiah Adams, both of Newark, have been arrested for the robbery and murder of Miguel Torres, 37, also of Newark.
Mr. Torres, the owner of JNC Mini Mart located at 346 14th Avenue in Newark, was fatally shot at approximately 6:14 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 17 during an armed robbery of his store. He was transported to University Hospital and pronounced dead at 6:41 p.m.
In addition to being charged with the murder of Torres, the same 16-year-old juvenile was also charged with the murder and robbery of Wilfredo Campos. Mr. Campos, 36, of Newark was fatally shot on Dec. 28, 2011 at 598 Orange Street in Newark. He died from his injuries on Jan. 3, 2012.
“Today’s arrests are the result of the determination of the investigators from the Newark Police Department along with its law enforcement partners, to ensure that those responsible for these murders were brought to justice. The reckless behavior and disregard of human life demonstrated by these criminals will not be tolerated in the City of Newark,” said Police Director Samuel DeMaio.
Acting Prosecutor Murray said the investigation that led to the arrests was aided in part by cooperation from the public after photographs of the suspects were released.
“In addition to the extraordinary work done by law enforcement, we want to thank members of the public for coming forward and assisting in this investigation,’’ said Prosecutor Murray.
“Law enforcement officers had made significant strides but those efforts were enhanced by cooperation from the public,’’ she added.
In addition to Adams and the 16-year-old juvenile, a third individual has also been arrested. Azil Ellington, 19, of East Orange has been charged with carjacking a Honda Civic on Dec. 23, 2011 in the 600 block of Orange Street in Newark.
The investigation is active and ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office tips line 1-877-847-7432.
These charges are accusations. All defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until they plead guilty or are found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
