Newark Police Shooting: Officer Killed, 14-Year-Old Suspect Charged with Murder

Tragic Shooting in Newark: A Community in Mourning

Newark, NJ—A tragic police shooting unfolded on the evening of March 9, 2025, resulting in the death of Officer Joseph Azcona and injuries to another officer. The suspect, a 14-year-old, has been charged with murder, attempted murder, and possession of illegal weapons.

 The Deadly Confrontation

  Incident Overview

• Time & Location: The shooting occurred at 6:30 PM at Broadway and Carter in Newark.
• Why Police Were There: Law enforcement was investigating reports of illegal firearms in the area.
• Gunfire Exchanged: Upon police interaction, shots were fired between officers and suspects.
• Casualties:
  • Officer Joseph Azcona (5-year veteran) was shot before exiting his vehicle and later pronounced dead at 2:34 AM.
  • A second officer was injured but is expected to survive.

H2: Suspects and Charges

• A 14-year-old suspect was charged with:
  • Murder
  • Attempted Murder
  • Possession of illegal firearms
• Other suspects were taken into custody.
• One firearm was recovered at the scene.

  A City and Police Force in Mourning

 Officer Joseph Azcona’s Legacy

• Served with the Newark Police Department for five years.
• Part of the Intelligence Unit, working with federal agencies like the FBI and ATF.
• Described as a hero who dedicated his life to public safety.
• Leaves behind grieving family, including his parents and five brothers.

 Public Safety Director’s Emotional Statement

Newark Public Safety Director Manuel Miranda expressed the pain of losing a fellow officer:

“Our hearts are heavy. We lost a true hero last night. He didn’t even get a chance to step out of his vehicle before he was struck. We are mourning, our community is mourning, and we ask for prayers for his family.”

  Newark Mayor & Prosecutor Call for Action

  Mayor Ras Baraka’s Urgent Plea

Mayor Ras Baraka emphasized the importance of addressing gun violence and its impact on young people:

“A 14-year-old should not have access to an automatic weapon. This is not just a police problem—it is a community problem. Families, schools, and neighbors must do more to protect our children from falling into violence.”

 Prosecutor Theodore Stephens’ Wake-Up Call

Essex County Prosecutor Theodore Stephens called the incident a wake-up call for the entire community:

“We must focus on why this 14-year-old was in this situation, had a gun, and felt he could use it against police. We need to intervene before another tragedy like this occurs.”

  Community Response & Next Steps

 Outpouring of Support

• Law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and residents have expressed deep sorrow and solidarity.
• The Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) and the Superior Officers Association are supporting officers.
• The Office of Violence Prevention and Intervention is working to prevent further incidents.

  Investigation and Legal Proceedings

• The investigation remains ongoing, with multiple agencies involved, including the FBI, ATF, DEA, and Homeland Security.
• The suspects are in custody, with further details expected in the coming days.

  Final Thoughts – A Call for Change

The tragic death of Officer Joseph Azcona is a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face daily and the urgent need for stronger community intervention.

Newark and the entire nation must now ask: How can we prevent young lives from turning to violence? How can we ensure police officers return home safely?

“We mourn. We remember. And we must act.”