Two New Jersey police officers were shot Tuesday in Newark, across the Hudson River, prompting a massive search for a suspect with a long gun, authorities reported.
Agreed with NBC New York, one of the officers was shot in the leg and the other in the neck, both of whom were taken to a local hospital.
“All we can confirm is that there was an incident,” said a spokesperson for the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office. “Two officers are being treated at a local hospital and the scene is still very active.”
Some media reports stated that the suspect shot at officers from a roof, Fox News reported.
Multiple law enforcement agencies were present in response to the shooting, including the FBI, New Jersey State Police, Essex County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, Fire and Explosives (ATF) and the United States Marshals Service. SWAT agents also approached the scene.
Meanwhile, the Governor of New Jersey, Phil Murphy, issued a statement on his Twitter account in which he noted that he is in contact with the authorities to ensure for the safety of citizens.
“I am aware of and closely following a situation that is unfolding in Newark,” the governor wrote. “I am in contact with the local authorities and the State is providing the requested resources. We will continue to support local law enforcement, and make sure all residents are safe.”
By For his part, the Democratic representative for New Jersey, Donald Payne, whose district includes Newark, stressed that he is also closely following the incident on Tuesday.
“Encouraging everyone to follow the instructions of the police, stay away from the scene and remain vigilant entering and closing their doors. I also pray for the two brave officers injured today, and I pray for their full recovery,” he stated.