Newark Police Officer Murdered: 14-Year-Old Arrested and Charged

According to Newark Police, Essex County Prosecutor Theodore Stephens has charged a 14-year-old with murder, attempted murder, and possession of a weapon in the fatal shooting of a Newark police officer on Friday.

The officer has been identified as Joseph Azcona, 26, a five-year intelligence unit veteran. Azcona has worked as a detective for the past two years.

The shooting occurred around 6:30 p.m. on Carteret Street and Broadway, near the White Castle restaurant. Azcona and a second officer were investigating a group of people who, according to police intelligence, possessed illegal firearms.

During an altercation, both officers were shot. Emanuel Miranda, Director of Public Safety, stated that Azcona "didn't even get a chance to step out of his vehicle."

The second officer, who has yet to be identified publicly, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is still in the hospital. Officials reported that one gun had been recovered. According to Stephens, five people are in police custody and being interviewed by the prosecutor's office.

The arrested juvenile was also shot and is currently hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. During a press conference on Saturday, officials referred to Azcona as a "true hero."

"Our heart is heavy right now. Our agency is hurting…He was part of an intelligence unit within the Newark police division. He was a true hero. Not only is the agency mourning, the community is mourning also,' said Miranda.

Gov. Phil Murphy and his wife were seen at University Hospital Friday, where the officers were taken following the shooting. The governor previously posted on social media that he was monitoring the situation.

Attorney General Matt Platkin said Friday his office was "closely monitoring" the situation and called for prayer for the officer.