By: Richard L. Smith
Acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens, II, has announced the conviction of Ryan Mwangi, 31, of Newark, for the 2019 murder of Kenneth Thomas.
Kenneth Thomas, also 31, was fatally shot while in his car on Renner Avenue, Newark, on May 13, 2019.
He sustained eight gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Mwangi, after committing the crime, fled in a stolen BMW but was later apprehended following an extensive investigation.
On January 26, 2024, a jury found Mwangi guilty of first-degree murder, second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon, and second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.
He is set to be sentenced by Judge Patrick Arre on March 22, 2024, facing a sentence of 30 years to life in prison.
Assistant Prosecutor Jacqueline Bilinkas, who tried the case alongside Jenna Ventola, also an Assistant Prosecutor, stated that the verdict brings justice to the victim and his family.
The conviction is seen as a significant step in deterring others from engaging in violent acts.
In addition to this conviction, Mwangi faces two more open cases in Essex County, including attempted murder and weapons offenses, and another for simple assault.
He also has prior felony convictions for aggravated assault and unlawful possession of a firearm.