Newark Mourns Loss of Detective Azcona, Another Officer Injured in Shooting
Newark, NJ – A somber cloud hangs over Newark, New Jersey, following the tragic death of Detective Joseph Azcona, who was fatally shot Friday night. Another detective sustained injuries in the same incident, Essex County Prosecutor Theodore Stephens announced on Saturday. A 14-year-old suspect is currently in custody, charged with murder, attempted murder, and possession of illegal weapons. The juvenile suspect was also shot during the encounter and is expected to recover.
The shooting unfolded around 6:37 p.m. near the intersection of Carteret Street and Broadway, a busy area often bustling with evening activity. According to Prosecutor Stephens, Detective Azcona was ambushed, not even having the opportunity to exit his police vehicle before being struck by gunfire. The swift and brutal nature of the attack has left the community reeling.
Both detectives and the teen suspect were immediately transported to University Hospital, the primary trauma center for the region. It was there that Detective Azcona was pronounced dead, a devastating blow to the Newark Police Department and the wider law enforcement community. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed his passing, marking a dark day for the city.
While the suspect is expected to survive his injuries, the condition of the injured detective remains a matter of considerable concern. University Hospital cited patient privacy concerns in declining to provide updates on the detective’s status to Fox News. However, Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin issued a statement on Saturday, confirming that the wounded detective is recovering from “significant injuries.” The specific nature of those injuries has not been disclosed, leaving many anxious for his full recovery.
The swift response to the shooting involved a massive coordinated effort by multiple law enforcement agencies. Attorney General Platkin commended the tireless work of Prosecutor Stephens, Public Safety Director Miranda, and the entire Newark Police Department, emphasizing their dedication throughout the night to apprehending those involved.
"Prosecutor Stephens, Public Safety Director Miranda, and the men and women of the Newark Police Department worked tirelessly through the night to locate those involved in this horrific exchange of gunfire that ended so tragically," Platkin stated in his message posted on X. "Rest assured, those involved will be brought to justice."
The Attorney General extended his heartfelt condolences, adding, "My prayers are with Detective Azcona, his family, and the entire Newark community. I want the brave men and women of the Newark Police Department to know I stand with them in this very difficult time."
News of the shooting spread rapidly Friday night, with initial reports from the New Jersey State Policemen’s Benevolent Association and the prosecutor’s office indicating that Detective Azcona was in "critical condition." The New York Police Department also issued a statement expressing their profound sorrow at the loss of Detective Azcona, highlighting the shared grief felt by law enforcement across state lines.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy addressed the situation on X, stating that he had been updated on the incident. "This is a rapidly developing situation," he wrote. "Please pray for these officers, their families, and all our men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line to keep us safe." The Governor and First Lady Tammy Murphy made a private visit to University Hospital in the immediate aftermath of the shooting, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the support from the state’s highest office.
The tragedy in Newark is not an isolated incident. Fraternal Order of Police National Vice President Joe Gamaldi highlighted the disturbing trend of violence against law enforcement officers nationwide, noting that within a few hours, four police officers had been shot across the country. "In just the last three hours, there have been 4 police officers shot, one is dead," Gamaldi posted on X. He cited the shooting of two officers from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg (NC) PD, who are both expected to recover. The Newark incident, however, brought the most devastating news, with Detective Azcona making "the ultimate sacrifice." Gamaldi added that these incidents were "beyond heartbreaking."
The outpouring of grief and support for Detective Azcona and the injured officer demonstrates the deep respect and appreciation for the sacrifices made by law enforcement. The Newark community is grappling with the loss of a dedicated officer, a reminder of the dangers faced by those who serve and protect. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with authorities committed to bringing all those involved to justice. The memory of Detective Joseph Azcona will undoubtedly serve as a symbol of bravery and dedication for the Newark Police Department and the community he served. The city now faces the difficult task of healing and moving forward in the wake of this senseless act of violence.
