MAYOR RAS J. BARAKA STATEMENT ON TRAGIC DEATH OF 17-YEAR-OLD PEDESTRIAN ON BLOOMFIELD AVENUE 

“This past Sunday evening, August 9, a 17-year-old pedestrian was tragically struck and killed on Bloomfield Avenue.

“This is a heartbreaking tragedy, and I extend my deepest condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones. No family should ever have to endure such a horrific loss, and our entire community mourns with them during this incredibly difficult time.

“The suspect in connection with this incident has turned himself in to authorities and is currently in custody. The circumstances surrounding this tragedy remain under investigation by the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office and the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, and we must allow that investigation to proceed and establish all of the facts.

“I also want to address misinformation that has been circulating on social media, including claims that this tragedy occurred as a result of Newark police pursuing a stolen vehicle. That information is false. The vehicle was not stolen. The City of Newark also has a strict policy prohibiting vehicle pursuits except under limited circumstances involving serious offenses.

“It is reckless and deeply concerning for anyone to present speculation as fact when the circumstances remain under investigation. At a time when a family is grieving the devastating loss of a daughter whose young life was tragically cut short, we must be responsible with the information we share and ensure that it is accurate and verified. Spreading misinformation does nothing to help this grieving family or our community. It only compounds the pain and causes harm during an already devastating time.

“We will continue to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation. Above all, our thoughts and deepest sympathies remain with the family and all those mourning this heartbreaking loss.”

̶   NEWARK   ̶

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