14-YEAR-OLD CHARGED WITH MURDER AFTER NEWARK OFFICER FATALLY SHOT IN AMBUSH

Newark Police Officer Killed, Another Injured in Shooting Involving 14-Year-Old Suspect

A tragic shooting in Newark on Friday evening claimed the life of Newark Police Officer Joseph Azcona and left another officer critically injured.

Authorities said a 14-year-old suspect has been charged with murder, attempted murder, and multiple weapons offenses.

According to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, the shooting happened around 6:30 p.m. near Broadway and Carteret Street, close to a McDonald's and White Castle.

Officers were investigating a group suspected of carrying illegal firearms when gunfire erupted. Officer Azcona, a five-year veteran, was fatally shot before he could exit his patrol car. He was rushed to the hospital but did not survive.

The second officer, initially in critical condition, has since stabilized.

The teenage suspect, who suffered non-life-threatening injuries, was also hospitalized.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances that led to the deadly encounter.