Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II and Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda announced on Feb. 5 the arrest of a suspect in connection with the fatal shooting of a 9-year-old boy in Newark on Friday January 31, 2025.
36-year-old Jesse J. Dunbar II of Newark is charged with 1st degree murder, 1st degree attempted murder, 2nd degree aggravated assault, 2nd degree unlawful possession of a weapon, and 2nd degree possession of a weapon for unlawful purpose. He is also charged with shooting an adult male.
“The killing of any persons is a tragic occurrence, but it is particularly heinous when an innocent 9-year-old child loses their life to all too common senseless violence”, said Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens, II.
These allegations are merely accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they enter a guilty plea or are found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office tips line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432. All calls will be kept confidential.
