ATF agents assisting the police at the crime scene on March 7. Photo: Kyle Mazza/NurPhoto via AP
A tragic night unfolded in Newark, New Jersey, when two police officers were shot while on duty—one losing his life and the other fighting to recover. The shocking incident took place on Friday evening, March 7, near Broadway and Carteret, leaving the community in mourning and searching for answers.
Officer Joseph Azcona, 26, a dedicated member of the Newark Police Department for five years, was rushed to the hospital but tragically did not survive. His fellow officer, whose name has not been released, is currently hospitalized but is expected to pull through.
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The alleged shooter? A 14-year-old boy. Authorities say the teen was also shot during the exchange but sustained non-life-threatening injuries. He has since been charged with murder, attempted murder, and illegal weapons possession.
The chaos erupted around 6:37 p.m., with witnesses recalling the terrifying moments. Randy Mejia, who was nearby, saw officers sprinting down the street before the gunfire rang out. Another witness, Andrea Perez, mistook the rapid shots for fireworks at first—until she saw a wave of police flood the area.
Investigators are still piecing together what led up to the deadly confrontation. Police have been focusing on a stretch of road between a McDonald’s and a White Castle, where they also recovered a backpack that may hold key evidence.
News of Azcona’s passing hit the law enforcement community hard. Robert W. Fox, president of the Fraternal Order of Police, confirmed the heartbreaking loss on Facebook, calling Azcona a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy also spoke out, urging the public to pray for the fallen officer, the wounded officer, and all those who put their lives on the line to protect the city.
As Newark grapples with this senseless act of violence, investigators continue their work, hoping to bring justice and closure to a grieving community.
