In the late hours of Monday, December 1, 2025, police officers in Newark, New Jersey, responded to reports of gunfire at the Gardens Spires housing complex located on First Street in the city's Central Ward. Upon arrival at the scene, authorities discovered a male victim suffering from gunshot wounds. The injured man was immediately transported to University Hospital for emergency treatment.
The victim was identified as Michael T. Hawkins, a 47-year-old resident of Newark.
Despite medical intervention, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at 3:26 a.m. on Tuesday, December 2, 2025. Following the incident, the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force took over the investigation into the fatal shooting.
As of early December 2025, the investigation remained active and ongoing, with law enforcement officials stating that the motive for the shooting had not yet been released. No arrests were immediately reported in connection with the homicide, and authorities continued to seek information regarding any suspects involved in the death.
Funeral arrangements were handled by Perry Funeral Home in Newark. A visitation was scheduled for Saturday, December 13, 2025, followed by a funeral service later that afternoon. Michael T. Hawkins was remembered by friends and family on online tribute walls, where he was affectionately referred to by the nickname "MikeyO." He was laid to rest at Evergreen Crematory in Hillside, New Jersey.
