West Orange Resident Arrested In Connection With Shooting: Prosecutors

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — A West Orange resident was one of three suspects arrested in connection with a shooting that took place outside an events venue in Verona. A fourth suspect remains at-large, authorities announced Thursday.

According to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, investigators allege that a verbal argument started inside a party at Palmetto Venues in Verona on the evening of March 15 and spilled out into the street. The suspects then began exchanging gunfire.

Four people suffered non-life-threatening wounds, prosecutors said.

Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the shooting: Sahid L. Cook, 32, of West Orange, and Jumanne A. McGee, 29, of Orange, face weapons charges, and Michael Chatmon, 41, of Newark, has been charged with aggravated assault in addition to weapons offenses.

A police investigation and search for the fourth suspect continues, Essex County Prosecutor Theodore Stephens II said.

“This was a senseless act of violence that endangered the lives of many innocent people at a celebration,” Stephens said.

Verona Police Chief Christopher Kiernan credited the county prosecutor’s office and the Newark Police Department with aiding the investigation.

Authorities said anyone with information can contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office tips line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432.

• See Related: Gunfire Wounds Several People After Party In Verona
• See Related: Verona Event Space Shut Down After Shooting In Parking Lot

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