METCALF PARK SHOOTING IN ORANGE LEFT ONE MAN DEAD AND ANOTHER INJURED

On September 12, 2024, a shooting at Metcalf Park in Orange left one man dead and another injured. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office is leading the investigation. The incident occurred around 8:35 p.m. near Valley Street and Morris Street. Orange Police officers, responding to gunfire, saw a suspect, 24-year-old Brandon D. Beasley, attempting to flee in a stolen vehicle. After a high-speed chase, Beasley was apprehended and a loaded weapon was recovered.

The deceased victim, 28-year-old DeAndre Smith, was found at the park and later died at the hospital. The other victim sustained a non-life-threatening injury. Beasley faces multiple charges, including murder and aggravated assault. The motive for the shooting is still under investigation. The shooting marks Orange's first homicide of 2024.