A distressing incident unfolded in Newark, New Jersey, when a 13-year-old boy was shot near Bragaw Avenue School, leading to a significant police response and a lockdown of the school. This shocking event, which occurred on the morning of December 20, 2023, has left the community in a state of alarm.
The Incident and Immediate Aftermath
According to reports, gunshots were heard around 10:45 a.m. on Leslie Avenue, near the Bragaw Avenue School, which is close to the East Orange border. Nine shell casings were found outside the school, pointing to the severity of the incident. The school was immediately placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure while police worked to secure the area and investigate the shooting [6].
The young victim was found three miles away on Grand Avenue, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. He was promptly taken to University Hospital and was reported to be in stable condition later that afternoon. This raised questions about how the teenager managed to travel from the site of the shooting to where he was eventually found [6][16].
Investigation and Circumstances
Newark Public Safety Director Fritz Fragé confirmed the shooting and the lockdown of the school. The Newark Police Department is actively investigating the incident. As of the latest updates, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting, and the reasons behind the tragic event are still unclear [6].
East Orange police suggested that the teen might have been attempting to break into a car when he was shot. It was also reported that the boy might have run to the location on Grand Avenue after being injured [16].
Community and Safety Concerns
The incident has brought forth significant concerns about safety in and around schools. The fact that a young teenager was involved and the proximity to the school have heightened anxieties in the community. The response from law enforcement was prompt, and the lockdown was a necessary measure to ensure the safety of the students and staff at Bragaw Avenue School.
As investigations continue, the community seeks answers and reassurance. The shooting of a 13-year-old boy near a school is a grim reminder of the pervasive issue of gun violence and the need for effective measures to protect our young people and educational institutions.
This incident serves as a call to action for not only the Newark community but also for societies everywhere to address the root causes of such violence and work towards a safer environment for all.
Note: This article is based on the latest available information from multiple sources. Some details might evolve as more information becomes available or as the ongoing investigation progresses.