By: Richard L. Smith
The Essex County Prosecutor's Office is actively investigating a fatal shooting incident that claimed the life of 34-year-old Mr. Ridge Scott Jr. of Newark on Christmas Day.
Acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens, II, confirmed that the Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force is spearheading the investigation into the incident that took place in broad daylight.
At approximately 1:28 p.m. on December 25, Newark police officers rushed to the 300 block of Clinton Avenue following reports of a shooting.
Upon arrival, they discovered a disturbing scene: Mr. Scott was found inside a burning vehicle that had crashed amid a chaotic exchange of gunfire.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the incident involved two vehicles and a heavy-set black male who reportedly stepped out of one car and opened fire on Scott's vehicle.
The intense gunfire left Scott with multiple wounds.
Emergency responders quickly transported Scott to University Hospital, but despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at 2:01 p.m.
As the investigation continues, the suspect remains at large. After the shooting, the unidentified individual was seen fleeing on foot westbound on Clinton Avenue.
No arrests have been made at this time.
The Essex County Prosecutor's Office is urging anyone with information regarding this incident to come forward. Community members can confidentially contact the Prosecutor's Office tips line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC (1-877-847-7432).
The investigation is active and ongoing, with authorities piecing together the circumstances of this tragic event.
