Seven Injured in Early Morning Drive-By Shooting in Paterson, New Jersey
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PATERSON, N.J. (AP) — Seven people were injured early Sunday morning after a drive-by shooting in Paterson, New Jersey, police said. The incident occurred just after 4 a.m. in the city’s downtown area, sending multiple victims to nearby hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries.
Emergency crews responded to the scene on Market Street near 15th Avenue, where witnesses reported hearing a series of gunshots before a dark-colored sedan sped away. Paramedics treated the injured on-site before transporting them to St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center and St. Mary’s General Hospital. Authorities have not released the names or ages of the victims, who are expected to survive.
Paterson Police Chief Michael F. L. announced that investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to identify the suspect vehicle and driver. No arrests have been made as of Sunday afternoon. The shooting marks the latest in a series of violent incidents in the city over the past month, raising concerns among residents and local officials.
Mayor Andre Sayegh condemned the violence in a statement released shortly after the incident, calling for community cooperation with law enforcement. “This senseless act of violence has no place in our city,” Sayegh said. “We are committed to bringing those responsible to justice and ensuring the safety of our neighborhoods.”
Local community leaders have organized a vigil for the victims at Paterson City Hall later Sunday evening. The event aims to honor those affected and promote unity in the wake of the shooting. Attendees are expected to include city officials, clergy members, and representatives from neighborhood associations.
Police have urged anyone with information about the incident to contact the Paterson Police Department’s tip line or call 911. Investigators are particularly interested in identifying the vehicle involved and any potential witnesses who may have seen the shooter or the getaway car.
The shooting has intensified calls for increased police patrols in the area. City council members are scheduled to discuss additional safety measures during a special meeting later this week. Residents have expressed frustration over the frequency of violent crimes in Paterson, with some calling for more resources to address the root causes of the violence.
As of Sunday afternoon, the investigation remains active. Authorities have not determined a motive for the shooting, and it is unclear whether the victims were targeted or caught in crossfire. Police have not ruled out the possibility of additional suspects or a connection to other recent incidents in the region.
The incident is under review by the New Jersey State Police, which has offered assistance to local investigators. Officials have not commented on whether the shooting is linked to gang activity or organized crime, though such connections are common in similar cases.
Residents in the surrounding neighborhoods have reported heightened anxiety, with some installing additional security measures at their homes. Local businesses have also expressed concern over the impact of the violence on the city’s economy and reputation.
As the investigation continues, the community awaits further updates from law enforcement. The focus remains on identifying the suspects and preventing future incidents. Police have promised to keep the public informed as more details emerge.