By: Richard L. Smith
A devastating incident has shaken the community of Edison, as Middlesex County officials are investigating an accidental shooting that led to the death of 76-year-old Patricia Novak.
Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone disclosed that the incident happened on the afternoon of April 5 on Glencourt Avenue, prompting an extensive investigation by both the Edison Police Department and the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office.
The situation began at approximately 2:09 p.m. when the Edison Police Department received a 911 call reporting the incident.
Responding officers discovered Ms. Patricia Novak with a gunshot wound. She was swiftly transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, where she was ultimately pronounced deceased.
Preliminary findings from the investigation revealed a heartbreaking accident within the Novak residence.
Robert Novak, 82, Patricia’s husband, was attempting to clear a registered firearm in a first-floor room when the weapon discharged unexpectedly.
The bullet tragically traveled into the basement, striking Patricia.
Upon hearing her screams, Robert immediately rushed to her aid and called emergency services upon realizing the tragic mistake.
Detective Christian Paone of the Edison Police Department and Detective Jose Rosario of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office are leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Officials said throughout the investigation, Robert Novak has cooperated fully with authorities, shedding light on the accident that led to his wife’s untimely death.
The investigation remains active and ongoing as detectives piece together the events leading up to the fatal shooting.
The Edison community and local law enforcement are calling on anyone with information about the incident to come forward and contact Detective Paone at 732-248-7413 or Detective Rosario at 732-745-3289.