Police officials in Newark are reporting that a warrant has been issued for the arrest of Shawn Elam, 35, of Newark, who is wanted for an aggravated assault that occurred on Friday, January 4th.
According to police, at approximately 2:30 a.m., officers responded to a South Ward residence on a call of an aggravated assault.
Members of the Newark Fire Division also responded as a result of a fire alarm at the same location.
Police say the suspect set two fires inside the residence during a quarrel with a woman he knows. The suspect also assaulted the victim during the altercation.
EMS transported the victim to University Hospital for treatment then released her.
Police say the residence was evacuated until firefighters confirmed that the fires were fully extinguished.
Detectives investigating this incident developed sufficient evidence to secure a warrant for the arrest of Shawn Elam in connection with this incident. He is described as 5’11” tall and 220 lbs., with a medium complexion, brown eyes and black hair according to police.
While police are actively searching for Elam, we seek the public’s assistance in quickly locating and removing him from our streets.
Director Ambrose is urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of Shawn Elam to call the Department's 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477) or 1-877-NWK-GUNS (1-877-695-4867). All anonymous Crime Stopper tips are kept confidential and could result in a reward.