Police took a man in custody late last night and charged him with weapons possession after he shot himself near a motel.
According to police, at approximately 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, officers responded to the 400 block of W. Edgar Rd (U.S. Route 1) on a report of shots fired.
Responding officers located 22-year-old Newark resident Mario Buchanan, who was bleeding from an apparent gunshot wound to his leg.
An initial investigation conducted by Linden Police Detectives concluded that the injury was self-inflicted.
A stolen H&R .22 caliber revolver and a quantity of marijuana were recovered.
Buchanan was transported to Newark University Hospital and later released.
“This arrest was possible because average citizens picked up the phone and reported suspicious activity.” said Linden Patrol Captain Michael Saake.
"Our ability to respond to and investigate cases like this relies on the cooperation of the public.”
Buchanan was charged with 2nd-degree possession of a weapon, 3rd-degree possession of stolen property, and possession of marijuana, a disorderly person offense.
He was committed to the Union County Jail pending a court appearance.
Each defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The incident remains under investigation, and anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Michael Burnette at (908) 474-8537.