JERSEY CITY, NJ – A minor is in custody following a targeted acid attack outside a Jersey City home that left six people injured, including three teenagers and a young woman with severe facial burns.
The Incident on Wilkinson Avenue
The attack occurred around 7:40 p.m. on Monday outside a residence near the intersection of Wilkinson Avenue and Ocean Avenue. According to the Jersey City Police Department, a vehicle pulled up to a group standing outside, and an occupant threw what investigators believe was sulfuric acid before speeding away.
Witnesses reported hearing a dispute followed by screams of “it burns, it burns” from the victims.
Severe Injuries Reported
Emergency responders rushed six victims to local hospitals. Among those injured:
- A 21-year-old female who sustained severe second-degree burns to her face and scalp.
- Three teenagers who were treated for various skin burns.
- Two other individuals who suffered minor chemical exposure.
Following the incident, hazardous material teams and first responders were seen washing down the street and nearby surfaces to neutralize the chemical residue, causing brief panic among neighborhood residents.
Targeted Dispute and Arrest
The Jersey City Mayor’s Office released a statement indicating that the attack was not random. Investigators believe it was a targeted incident stemming from a larger dispute involving a group of girls on the block earlier in the day.
While a juvenile suspect has been arrested, police have not yet released their identity or specific charges due to their age. The investigation remains active.
