Community Tragedy

It is with a terrible sadness in my heart that I inform you about another recent loss to our Linden community. At approximately 9:30am this morning, Linden Police Officers responded to reports of a shooting, at which two adults and a child were pronounced deceased on scene. A second child was transported to Newark University Hospital but was also was pronounced deceased. This loss will raise many emotions, concerns and questions for our Linden community, especially our youngest population. 

I have been in communication with Dr. Rocco Tomazic, Interim Superintendent of Linden Public School, and Atiya Perkins, Assistant Superintendent of Support. Our frontline responders have been extensively trained to respond to events such as this, and both the City and the Linden Public Schools crisis teams have been mobilized to respond to this tragic event. 

Useful information that can be used to provide guidance and assistance for your children and other loved ones can be found here, and also on the Linden Public School website. 

It is important to remember that we are all family in Linden. To say we are deeply saddened by this loss is a severe understatement. There simply are no words to describe the continued trauma, heartbreak and sorrow we are all experiencing. 

For additional information, or if you need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Linden Public Schools at (908) 486-2800 or the Mayor’s Office, at (908) 474-8493, or any of the other agencies listed. We will make every effort to help you and your children cope with this terrible loss.