Newark _ A 14-year-old has been charged with murder following the devastating shooting death of Newark Police Officer Joseph Azcona and the wounding of a second officer during an illegal weapons investigation on Friday evening. The incident, which unfolded as a Newark Police Department intelligence team carried out their work, has left the Newark community reeling in shock and sorrow.
According to Emanuel Miranda, Newark’s Director of Public Safety, Officer Azcona never had a chance to defend himself. Ambushed while still seated in his vehicle, the five-year veteran of the force was struck by gunfire before he could even step out. He was rushed to University Hospital, where medical staff fought to save him, but he was tragically pronounced dead. Meanwhile, the second officer injured in the attack is currently undergoing treatment, though details about their condition remain limited.
The 14-year-old suspect now faces charges of murder and weapons offenses, a grim reminder of the rising concerns over youth violence and illegal firearms in the city. Authorities also detained several other individuals in connection with the shooting, though their roles remain under investigation. The loss of Officer Azcona has ignited a wave of grief and frustration among residents and law enforcement alike, with many questioning how such a young individual could be involved in such a heinous act.
As the investigation continues, city officials have vowed to double down on efforts to combat illegal gun possession and address the root causes of violence plaguing Newark’s streets. For now, the community mourns a dedicated officer taken too soon, while hoping for justice and healing in the days ahead.