Fatal Gunfight With Police In NJ Town, Authorities Say

JERSEY CITY, NJ — A man is dead after a gunfight with Jersey City police early Tuesday morning, officials said.

Members of the police Street Crimes Unit saw a man “acting suspiciously and noticed a bulge in his clothing consistent with a possible firearm” around 1 a.m., Mayor Steve Fulop said.

When police approached, the man opened fire. An officer shot back, striking the man, who was later pronounced dead at the hospital, officers said.

Fulop asked residents to stay clear of the area of Ege and Bergen avenues on Tuesday morning as the investigation continued.

The probe will now be turned over to the Attorney General’s Office, which investigates all police shootings, he noted.

Anyone who can assist in the investigation or has information can reach out directly to the state office, Fulop said.

Attorney General Update

The Attorney General's Office sent out a statement at 7 p.m. on Tuesday saying, "One adult male civilian sustained fatal injuries. His identity
and the identity of the involved officer are not being released at this time.

"According to the preliminary investigation, officers assigned to the Jersey City Police Department's Street Crimes Unit encountered the decedent in the area of Bergen and Virginia avenues shortly after 1 a.m.. Gunfire was exchanged and a civilian was struck. A gun was recovered at the scene. Emergency medical aid was provided before the wounded civilian was transported to Jersey City Medical Center."

The man was pronounced dead at around 1:44 a.m., the office said.

The investigation is ongoing and no further details are being released at this time.