By: Richard L. Smith
Acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens, II, has announced that an Essex County jury has handed down convictions for Tymeer Gumbs, 25, of Newark, on charges including Murder, Conspiracy to Commit Murder, Attempted Murder, weapons offenses, and Hindering One’s Own Prosecution or Apprehension.
The charges stem from a tragic incident that unfolded in May 2019, where a group of men fell victim to gunfire near the intersection of Maple and Chancellor avenues in Newark. Tragically, Murad Harris lost his life as a result of the shooting.
Spokesman Robert Florida released a statement outlining the circumstances of the case.
On the evening of May 6, 2019, a group of men were engaged in conversation near a gas station, a Chinese restaurant, and a barbershop when their lives were suddenly disrupted.
A stolen Dodge Durango pulled up, and its occupants opened fire on the men.
Amidst the chaos, Tymeer Gumbs exited the Durango and relentlessly pursued Murad Harris, ultimately shooting him in the back of the head.
Gumbs then turned his weapon on another man, but fortune intervened as the firearm jammed. With a swift escape, the Durango fled the scene, managing to elude the pursuing police.
The Essex County Homicide Task Force took on the investigation, gradually piecing together the puzzle and identifying Tymeer Gumbs and Isaiah Kane, 25, also of Newark, as conspirators in the murder.
The jury's verdict included the conviction of Isaiah Kane on charges of Conspiracy to Commit Murder, Aggravated Manslaughter, weapons offenses, and Eluding Police.
Furthermore, Tymeer Gumbs faced an additional conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Assistant Prosecutor Adam B. Wells, who led the prosecution alongside Assistant Prosecutor Dana Kutzleb, expressed gratitude for the jury's dedication in bringing justice to the case.
He reflected on the senseless tragedy, stating, "I want to thank the jury for their hard work on this case, and I am glad that we were able to obtain justice under the law for Mr. Harris and his family in this utterly senseless murder."
Wells also acknowledged the relentless efforts of the Essex County Prosecutor's Office Homicide Task Force, with special mention of lead Detective Donald Stabile, who has since retired. Their unwavering commitment was pivotal in ensuring the killers were brought to justice.
As the legal proceedings continue, Tymeer Gumbs could face life imprisonment for the Murder conviction, while Isaiah Kane faces the prospect of decades behind bars for his convictions.
Sentencing is scheduled for February 8, 2024, before the Hon. John Zunic, J.S.C., who presided over the trial. This verdict serves as a testament to the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families.