In the early evening of May 19, 2024, a day meant for leisure and family, turned into a scene of violence and tragedy in Roselle's Warinanco Park. Shakiir Manns, a 28-year-old Black man from the neighboring town of Linden, was enjoying time with his family when his life was cut short by gunfire. The incident, which occurred around 7:51 p.m., sent shockwaves through the community, leaving loved ones to grapple with the sudden and senseless loss.
The Union County Prosecutor's Office launched an investigation into the fatal shooting, urging any witnesses who were in the park, specifically near Baseball Field 10 and the Horseshoe, to come forward with any information, including photos or videos from that evening. The plea for public assistance highlighted the brazen nature of the crime, which took place in a public park in broad daylight.
Days after the shooting, on May 24, 2024, a significant development occurred in the case.
Gerald Walker, a 47-year-old man also from Linden, surrendered to the Elizabeth Police Department. Following an investigation by the Union County Prosecutor's Office Homicide Task Force and the Union County Police, Walker was identified as the suspect in Manns' death. He has since been charged with first-degree murder and two second-degree weapons offenses. Walker is being held in the Union County Jail as he awaits his first court appearance. While an arrest has been made, the motive behind the deadly encounter in the park remains under investigation.
