Teen Girl in Critical Condition Following Newark Shooting; Investigation Ongoing
NEWARK, N.J. – June 27, 2025 —A 16-year-old girl is fighting for her life after being shot in broad daylight on Friday in Newark, New Jersey, according to authorities. The incident, which occurred around 5:25 p.m. on Huntington Terrace near Lehigh Avenue, has left the local community stunned and concerned about ongoing gun violence involving youth in the city.
Newark police and emergency medical personnel rushed to the scene shortly after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire in the area. The teenage victim was found with at least one gunshot wound and was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where she remains in critical condition. Her identity has not been publicly released due to her age.
What We Know So Far
At this time, little is known about the circumstances that led to the shooting. Police have not disclosed whether the teen was the intended target or a bystander caught in crossfire. No arrests have been made, and no suspect descriptions have been released as of Friday evening. Authorities have not confirmed whether the shooting is believed to be gang-related, domestic in nature, or part of a personal dispute.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, along with the Newark Police Department, is actively investigating the incident. Officials have canvassed the neighborhood for witnesses, reviewed surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses, and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
“This was a tragic and senseless act of violence,” said one law enforcement official on the scene, who asked to remain anonymous. “We are working tirelessly to piece together exactly what happened and bring those responsible to justice.”
Community Reaction
The shooting has shaken the residents of Huntington Terrace, a neighborhood that has seen its share of violence in recent years but has also been the focus of city-led revitalization efforts. Concerned neighbors described hearing several gunshots ring out in rapid succession, followed by screams and the arrival of emergency vehicles.
“It’s heartbreaking. She’s just a child,” said one neighbor who witnessed the aftermath. “You don’t expect to hear gunfire this close to home—not in the early evening when people are out walking, kids are playing.”
Local activists and community leaders are once again calling for stronger measures to address youth violence, access to firearms, and the systemic issues contributing to these tragedies.
“We need urgent action—resources for prevention, education, mental health support, and a full community approach,” said Rev. Thomas Garrison, a youth advocate and mentor in Newark. “We are losing too many of our young people to violence.”
Call for Information
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or has information related to the incident to contact the Newark Police Department or the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Essex County by calling 1-877-TIPS-4EC (847-7432) or online.
The investigation is ongoing, and police say updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
A Troubling Pattern
This shooting adds to a troubling trend of gun violence affecting teenagers not only in Newark but across the region. Despite various community-based efforts and law enforcement initiatives, shootings involving young victims continue to rise, sparking urgent debates about prevention, accountability, and intervention.
The city of Newark has implemented several outreach programs and neighborhood safety initiatives in recent years, including increased police patrols in high-risk areas and partnerships with violence interrupter groups. Still, Friday’s shooting underscores the complexity and immediacy of the crisis.
Final Note
As a 16-year-old girl remains hospitalized in critical condition, the city waits in hope for her recovery while grappling with yet another painful reminder of the toll that gun violence takes on families, neighborhoods, and futures.
Anyone with information is strongly urged to step forward. One call can make a difference.
Reporting Credit: Dominique Jack, Digital Content Producer, PIX11 News
Follow her reporting for more updates and breaking developments.
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