Newark, NJ – Fatal Shooting Near South Ward School Sparks Panic During Student Dismissal
Newark, NJ – Fatal Shooting Near South Ward School Sparks Panic During Student Dismissal
NEWARK, NJ — A horrifying and deeply disturbing tragedy struck the heart of Newark’s South Ward on Tuesday afternoon, June 10, 2025, when a fatal shooting erupted just steps from a local elementary school, coinciding with the school’s dismissal period. What should have been a routine end to the school day was instead transformed into a moment of chaos, fear, and heartbreak, as children, parents, and teachers fled in panic from the sound of gunfire.
Authorities confirmed that one person was fatally shot near the intersection of Clinton Place and Chancellor Avenue, only yards away from the school’s entrance. According to witnesses, multiple shots rang out just after 3 p.m. — the exact time students were being released from classes and many families were congregated outside to pick up their children. Screams quickly filled the air, and teachers rushed to usher students back inside the building or into nearby safe areas. Parents dropped to the ground or clutched their children, trying desperately to shield them from the violence.
The victim, whose identity has not yet been publicly released pending family notification, was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders. Initial reports from the Newark Police Division indicate that the shooting appears to be a targeted act of violence rather than a random incident, but the proximity to the school and the timing of the attack have raised alarm across the city and beyond.
Video footage captured by bystanders and shared widely across social media shows the harrowing moments of confusion and fear, with children seen running, crying, and calling out for their parents. One parent, visibly shaken, told reporters: “It was like a war zone. One minute I was waiting for my son to walk out the door, and the next I heard shots. I just grabbed whoever was close to me and ran.”
School officials immediately activated emergency protocols, locking down the campus while police secured the perimeter and ensured the safety of all remaining students and staff. Dozens of police vehicles, ambulances, and investigators descended on the area in the aftermath of the shooting. Classes at the affected school were canceled for the following day, and crisis counselors have been made available to students, staff, and families.
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka addressed the city Tuesday evening, calling the incident “a sickening act of violence that strikes at the very heart of our community.” He added, “To have gunfire erupt where our children are supposed to feel safest — at school — is absolutely unacceptable. We will not tolerate it, and we will do everything in our power to bring those responsible to justice.”
City officials, community leaders, and advocates are again calling for increased efforts to combat gun violence and improve safety measures around schools. The shooting underscores a growing concern among Newark residents about violence encroaching on spaces where families gather, children learn, and communities are meant to feel secure.
The investigation remains ongoing. Detectives are currently reviewing surveillance footage from the surrounding area and speaking with witnesses. Police have not announced any arrests at this time, but they are urging anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be shared anonymously through the Newark Police Division’s tip line or through Crime Stoppers.
In the wake of the tragedy, vigils are being planned in the South Ward neighborhood, as community members come together to mourn the life lost and support the shaken school community. Faith leaders and neighborhood organizations are working to provide resources and emotional support, and many are reiterating their calls for peace, unity, and concrete action to protect Newark’s youth.
As the community grapples with the trauma of this incident, one thing is clear: the safety of our children must remain paramount. The city of Newark now faces the challenge of not only healing from this devastating event but ensuring it is never repeated.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Newark Police Division’s tips line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS or Crime Stoppers at 1-877-695-8477. All tips are confidential.
