On the evening of January 3, 2024, a burst of gunfire shattered the night on the 100 block of Ridgewood Avenue in Newark's South Ward, ending the life of 17-year-old Quran McClean. The young Black male was with a group of individuals at approximately 9:57 p.m. when a vehicle reportedly drove by and opened fire. In the ensuing chaos, McClean was struck by the gunfire.
Seeking safety, the wounded teenager managed to run into a nearby building, but his injuries were too severe.
He was found inside suffering from multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. The tragic event left the community reeling and searching for answers. In the immediate aftermath, law enforcement began an intensive search for those responsible for the fatal drive-by shooting.
In a related development, a 23-year-old man arrived at University Hospital in critical condition with gunshot wounds. It was determined that he was injured at the same time and location as McClean. While authorities investigated, it remained unclear if the two shootings were connected.
As of now, the investigation into Quran McClean's death is ongoing. The Essex County Prosecutor's Office has been actively seeking information from the public to help identify the suspect or suspects involved in the shooting. To date, no arrests have been made, and the individuals responsible for the death of the teenager remain at large.
