By: Richard L. Smith
Police officials in Newark are investigating the cause of two individuals who were discovered deceased in the historic Old Essex County Jail in Newark on Sunday.
Newark authorities were alerted to suspicious activities at the iconic structure, situated at 271 New Street near the NJIT campus, at approximately 12:15 p.m.
Upon arrival, officers found two unidentified individuals unconscious and unresponsive.
Tragically, both were pronounced dead at the scene. Initial assessments suggest that the cause may be related to drug overdoses, a somewhat contrast to the building's rich historical past.
Built-in the year 1837, the Old Essex County Jail is one of the oldest structures in Essex County. This architectural and social landmark was recognized and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1991.
The jail, now abandoned since 1971, is located in the University Heights section of Newark's Central Ward, raised above what used to be The Morris Canal and presently Raymond Boulevard.
This structure, aside from its historical significance, gained cinematic fame as a location for scenes in the film "Malcolm X."
Despite its status as a national landmark, residents at a nearby complex told RLS Media the former jail has become a haven for illicit activities, including drug use. This reality casts a shadow over the building's historical significance.
"We welcome the historical significance of this old Essex County jail and want it restored into something that the NJIT campus and University Heights community can be proud of," -Residents
Despite its notable past, residents said the property often seems insecure and easily accessible to trespassers. "This unfortunate situation likely explains the tragic discovery made on Sunday, highlighting the need for better security and preservation efforts for such historical sites," residents said.
The investigation into this incident remains open, and police have not released the identity of the individuals found.
Residents in the University Heights section of Newark are expressing their hopes for a more constructive solution to the ongoing issue of criminal activity at historically significant sites like the Old Essex County Jail.
Traditionally, when unable to control illicit activities at such properties, the response has often been to demolish them. However, the community is advocating for a different approach.
This sentiment reflects a desire to preserve and repurpose these important landmarks, transforming them from neglected sites into sources of community pride and revitalization.
