Curt Johnson, 36, was fatally shot in the early hours of Sunday, May 15, 2022, in Irvington, New Jersey. Officers answered reports of gunfire about 3:22 a.m. near Prospect Street and Nesbit Terrace and found Johnson with multiple gunshot wounds; he was pronounced dead at 3:58 a.m. He lived in East Orange at the time.

Known as Ceejay, Johnson was of Guyanese descent. He worked eight years as a telephone maintainer for New York City Transit and ran his own music label, Roll Out Records, pursuing a career as a singer and songwriter. Colleagues described him as well-liked, easy-going and caring; friends in music remembered his passion and dedication. Relatives said he had been leaving his brother’s birthday celebration when the shooting occurred and that robbery did not appear to be the motive, since he was still wearing jewelry when found.

The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force is leading the investigation and asked the public for information. No arrests or suspects have been publicly identified as of the latest reports. If anyone knew Curt, was in the area that night, or has information that could help, please come forward.