A 14-year-old boy has been charged with the murder of Detective Joseph Azcona, a 26-year-old Newark police officer, following a chaotic shooting spree that left another officer wounded and sent colleagues fleeing for their lives.
Detective Azcona was killed before he even had the chance to exit his vehicle, during an illegal firearms sting operation in Newark, New Jersey, on Friday evening, March 7, according to prosecutors.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office is continuing to investigate the shooting in collaboration with the Newark Police Department and federal agencies.
Mourning a Fallen Officer
Azcona had been promoted to detective two years ago and was considered a rising star in his unit. Tributes have poured in from across the law enforcement community, hailing his bravery and dedication to duty.
“We lost one of our finest,” Miranda added. “And the city is grieving.”
