PATERSON, NJ — A violent Saturday evening in Paterson has left a community in mourning and three individuals fighting for their lives. Authorities have confirmed that a 20-year-old man was killed and three others were wounded following a brazen shooting in a residential neighborhood.
The incident occurred around 6 p.m. near the intersection of East 29th Street and 10th Avenue. According to the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, responding officers discovered four victims suffering from gunshot wounds at the scene.
The Victims and Their Condition
All four victims were rushed to Saint Joseph’s University Medical Center. City Councilman Luis Velez noted that all of the victims involved are under the age of 30.
- Deceased: A 20-year-old male from Oxford was tragically pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital.
- Critical Condition: Two victims remain in critical condition as of Sunday morning.
- Stable Condition: One victim is currently listed in stable condition.
Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh addressed the violence late Saturday, stating, “We have officers at the hospital, we’re monitoring their condition. I can confirm that four people have been shot. Unfortunately, we have four victims.”
Witnesses Describe Chaos Near Children’s Party
The shooting was made even more harrowing by its proximity to a local celebration. Witnesses told News 12 that a children’s birthday party was taking place just steps away from where the bullets flew.
Neighbors described hearing a rapid succession of “multiple rounds” being fired. Families were forced to grab children and run inside for cover as the street turned into a crime scene. By nightfall, investigators were seen placing dozens of yellow evidence markers across the pavement, indicating a high volume of shell casings.
Ongoing Investigation
The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office and the Paterson Police Department have launched a joint investigation into the shooting. As of now, no arrests have been announced, and authorities have not yet released a motive for the attack or a description of any suspects.
Councilman Velez expressed deep concern over the age of the victims and the recurring violence in the area, calling for increased accountability and safety measures.
How You Can Help
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Residents can provide tips anonymously through the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office tips line.
What do you think, Paterson? Are you concerned about the rising violence in our neighborhoods? What steps should the city take to ensure our children can have birthday parties without fear of gunfire?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
