Crime & Safety

Girl, 2, Wounded In Newark During ‘Targeted’ Shooting: Police

Newark Safety Director: "Thankfully, it appears she will recover from her injuries and there is no danger to the community."

NEWARK, NJ — A young child is reportedly in stable condition after being shot in the Central Ward of Newark on Monday afternoon, authorities say.

According to the Newark Department of Public Safety, police responded to the area of 14th Avenue and South 6th Street at 2:06 p.m. after getting a ShotSpotter notification of gunfire. At that time, the officers were alerted that a 2-year-old child had just arrived at University Hospital for treatment of a gunshot wound.

“Our detectives have determined that this was a targeted incident,” Newark Public Safety Director Brian O’Hara said.

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“Unfortunately, a child has become a victim,” O’Hara said. “Thankfully, it appears she will recover from her injuries and there is no danger to the community.”

The child was not the target in the shooting, a police spokesperson told Patch.

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“While detectives are investigating this incident and actively following all leads, we seek the public’s help with identifying any suspects to bring those responsible to justice,” Newark authorities stated.

No additional details were immediately available.

Anyone with information can call the department's 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-695-8477. Anonymous tips can also be made using the Police Division’s website at www.newarkpd.org or through its smartphone app.

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