A Tragic Shooting Leaves a Star New Jersey Football Player Dead at 16

A tragic shooting in Newark, New Jersey, claimed the life of a 16-year-old boy and left another teen critically injured on Thursday evening. The incident occurred around 6:00 p.m. near 227 Brookdale Avenue in the West Ward of the city. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the heartbreaking news, with authorities reporting that one of the victims, later identified as Ziad Cook, a well-known athlete and student at Irvington High School, was pronounced dead at 9:19 p.m.

Cook, a beloved member of the school’s football team, had deep ties to the community, making his death all the more devastating. The second victim, a 17-year-old male, was rushed to University Hospital, where he remains in critical condition, fighting for his life.

Earlier reports indicated that someone had walked into the hospital with gunshot wounds. Law enforcement officials have not disclosed further details about the incident, including the identity of any suspects or a potential motive.

The Essex County Prosecutor’s Homicide Task Force is leading the investigation and has urged anyone with information to contact the prosecutor’s tip line or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

The Newark community is mourning the loss of a young athlete whose life was cut short far too soon. The investigation continues as authorities work to uncover the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.