A shooting in a Newark apartment on August 9, 2025, left 45-year-old Shaneequah Williams dead. Neighbors reported screams and sounds they believed were gunshots in the late morning; police arrived at about 10:45 a.m. and found Williams suffering from gunshot wounds. She was pronounced dead at her apartment despite first responders’ efforts.

Investigators quickly treated the incident as domestic violence-related and identified her 42-year-old ex-boyfriend, Kasem McDonald, as the suspect. McDonald reportedly fled in a light-colored vehicle after the shooting but surrendered that evening at the Essex County Correctional Facility. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office announced McDonald’s arrest and that he faced first-degree murder charges plus counts for unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and being a previously convicted felon in possession of a handgun.

Friends and neighbors described Williams as a bright light and a beautiful soul who worked at a local lodge; many shared memories on social media. If anyone saw activity near the Astor Avenue building on the morning of August 9 or has other information, please come forward.