The Attorney General’s Office of Public Integrity and Accountability is investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting that took place on January 19, 2026, in Newark, New Jersey. According to preliminary information, officers from the Newark Police Department encountered several civilians near Ross Street and Evergreen Avenue shortly after 1 p.m. During this encounter, an officer discharged his weapon, striking two civilians.
Both individuals were transported to University Hospital in Newark. One civilian was pronounced dead shortly after arrival; the other remains hospitalized for treatment. No police officers were injured during the incident, though one officer was taken to the hospital for evaluation and later released. The identities of those involved have not been disclosed at this time.
A state law enacted in 2019 requires the Attorney General’s Office to investigate any death occurring during an encounter with law enforcement or while a person is in custody. This law also mandates that such cases be presented to a grand jury to determine whether there is sufficient evidence for indictment against involved officers.
The investigation remains ongoing, and no additional details are being released currently.
The New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin oversees legal and public-safety matters across the state through various divisions responsible for enforcement and oversight. More information about the agency can be found on its official website.
