On the evening of August 17, 2026, a tragic event unfolded inside a residence in Newark, New Jersey, abruptly ending the life of 21-year-old Royce Asaad Lamont Westry of Irvington. At approximately 5:36 p.m., in the 700 block of South 16th Street, an armed male suspect reportedly entered the home and opened fire, striking Westry multiple times. Emergency medical services were quickly dispatched to the scene and rushed him to University Hospital.
Despite their efforts, Royce Westry was pronounced dead at approximately 6:19 p.m.
Royce, born on October 26, 2004, was remembered as a quiet and loving young man with a gentle spirit and a beautiful smile. He was raised in a close-knit family and was particularly influenced by the love and guidance of his cousin, Theresa Bearfield. He had attended Marion P. Thomas Charter School and was continuing his education at Essex County College. Known for his strong work ethic, he was employed at FedEx. Westry also had a passion for sports, having played football and participated in boxing. His family, including his parents, John Westry and Deidre Dancer, his grandmother, and numerous siblings, were left to mourn his sudden and violent death.
The Essex County Prosecutor's Office, in conjunction with Newark's Shooting Response Team, immediately launched an investigation into the homicide. In the days following the shooting, authorities had not publicly identified a suspect or a possible motive for the attack. The investigation was described as active and ongoing as of late August 2026. The shooting brought renewed attention to the neighborhood, which was part of a significant residential redevelopment initiative. As investigators continued their search for the person responsible for this senseless act of violence, the community was left awaiting answers and justice for the untimely death of Royce Asaad Lamont Westry. The case remains a poignant reminder of a young life cut short, with the official investigation into who was responsible and why still unresolved based on available information.
