By: Richard L. Smith
Authorities in Essex County today announced that two Irvington men have been arrested and charged with murder concerning the recent fatal shooting of Mr. Romulo Luzuriaga of Newark.
According to Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Spokesman Robert Florida, on May 11 at 10:25 p.m., police responded to a report of a shooting at the 200 block of Grafton Avenue in Newark. Police located Mr. Luzuriaga, 57, in a car, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was transported to University Hospital and pronounced dead at 11:05 p.m.
In the ensuing investigation, ECPO Florida said the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force identified a car involved in the incident.
On May 12, Newark police observed the car, and a chase ensued. The driver, Deontee Jones, 24, of Irvington, fled from the vehicle but was apprehended by police.
He was subsequently charged with murder, conspiracy to commit murder, felony murder, two counts of robbery, and two weapons offenses. He was also charged with four counts of eluding police. In addition, he was linked to robberies in Newark and charged with an additional five counts of robbery and three weapons offenses.
The investigation also led to the arrest of Mr. Earl Betterson, 33, of Irvington, who was charged with murder, conspiracy to commit murder, felony murder, two counts of robbery, and two weapon offenses.
He, too, was linked to multiple robberies in Newark and was charged with five additional counts of robbery and three weapons offenses.
These are accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they enter a guilty plea or are found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The investigation is active and ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office tips line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432.
Calls will be kept confidential.