UNION COUNTY, NJ---After an intensive investigation, Union County Police have announced the arrests of three Newark residents—two men and a woman---in connection with a shooting incident that occurred at Rizzuto Park in Union on September 30th. Fortunately, there were no injuries, and the target victim---who was lured into the park—did not get shot.
According to a statement released by police, Constance Jones, Rayshorn Fletcher-McKenith and Kayson Beatty—all 18—and all from Newark were charged in connection with the shooting which occurred at 11:15 p.m. on a Sunday.
All the defendants were remanded in the Union County Jail in Elizabeth pending court procedures.
Union County Police Detectives Dino Capra and Joseph Ferraioli were the lead detectives in the investigation, and quickly developed information and obtained evidence that led to the arrests.
Police say prior to the arrival of the victim in the park on Sunday night at Rizzuto Park in Union, September 30th, two of the arrested individuals were waiting for him.
Once the victim arrived at the park one of the arrested individuals approached him, while he was seated in a parked car and fired numerous rounds police said.
The victim was not struck by any of the shots fired. The victim immediately fled Phil Rizzuto Park. Members of the Union County Police Department Uniform Division responded to the park and secured the area. Members of the Union County Police Department Detective Bureau responded to initiate the follow-up investigation.
Jones was identified as the female involved in this shooting incident. She was apprehended on Monday, October 1st and was arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit aggravated assault.
Detectives Capra and Ferraioli developed additional information regarding this shooting incident which resulted in the arrest of the shooter and his accomplice.
According to police, on Wednesday, October 3rd, Fletcher-McKenith, identified as the shooter, was apprehended without incident in Newark by members of the Union County Detective Bureau. Fletcher-McKenith was charged with attempted murder, possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes and unlawful possession of a weapon.
Police say on Saturday, October 6th, Beatty turned himself in to members the Union County Police Department Detective Bureau in Westfield. Beatty was charged with attempted murder, tampering with evidence and unlawful possession of a handgun.