On December 25, 2023, Ridge Scott Jr., 34, was shot and killed in a daytime attack on the 300 block of Clinton Avenue in Newark. The shooting happened around 1:30 p.m.; witnesses described two vehicles involved and said a heavy-set male emerged from one of them and opened fire on the car occupied by Scott. During the exchange of gunfire the vehicle crashed and caught fire. First responders found Scott inside the burning vehicle with multiple gunshot wounds. He was taken to University Hospital and pronounced dead at 2:01 p.m.

The lone suspect was seen fleeing on foot, heading westbound on Clinton Avenue. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force led the investigation. There is a family coping with a sudden loss and a community seeking answers. If anyone witnessed the shooting or has information about the suspect or vehicles involved, please share what is known.