Acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens, II, announced today that the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office is investigating an incident that occurred in Newark earlier this afternoon.
According to officials, at approximately 1:26 p.m., a Newark detective observed a stolen Mercedes Benz in the area of Passaic Street and Oriental Street.
Officials say as the detective approached, the driver of the Mercedes struck the detective and his police vehicle. In the course of the assault, the Newark detective discharged his service weapon.
According to officials, it does not appear that anyone was struck by gunfire.
The Mercedes then fled the area and proceeded north on Route 21 towards Belleville, with Newark Police in pursuit.
Officials say the Mercedes crashed in the area of Grafton Avenue and Rt. 21.
One 19-year-old male has been taken into custody.
The Newark detective has been treated at a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.
Officials say it is still early in the investigation, and this information is preliminary.