Charisse Ates, a 38-year-old mother and chef, was fatally shot on the evening of Wednesday, December 30, 2020, on the 100 block of South Eighth Street near 11th Avenue in Newark, New Jersey. She was taken to University Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Ates was remembered by family as generous and community-minded, known for cooking for those in need and offering a welcoming presence. Her sister, Tahirah Ates, said Charisse looked out for others; she is survived by a teenage daughter.

The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force and the Newark Police Department opened an active investigation. Authorities had not determined whether Ates was the intended target, and as of late 2020 no arrests or public suspect identifications had been announced.

If anyone knew Charisse or has information about what happened that night, please come forward to assist the investigation.