Union, NJ Shooting Leaves 1 Dead, 2 Injured; Suspect At Large

Union, NJ Shooting Leaves 1 Dead, 2 Injured; Suspect At Large...

A shooting in Union, New Jersey, early Sunday morning left one person dead and two others injured, sparking a police manhunt for the suspect. The violence erupted around 2:30 a.m. near Morris Avenue and Stuyvesant Avenue, a busy commercial area, according to Union Township police.

Authorities confirmed the deceased victim was a 24-year-old local man, while the injured—a 19-year-old woman and a 22-year-old man—were hospitalized with non-life-threatening wounds. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots followed by screams, prompting 911 calls from nearby residents.

The shooting is trending nationally due to its occurrence in a typically low-crime suburban community, raising concerns about escalating gun violence. Union Mayor Michele Delisfort called it "a tragic anomaly" and urged calm as detectives work leads. Police have not released suspect details but believe the attack was targeted.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy tweeted about the incident Sunday, pledging state resources to assist local law enforcement. The Union County Prosecutor’s Office is leading the investigation, with FBI support being considered. Crime scene tape remained in place through midday as forensic teams collected evidence.

Residents expressed shock, noting the area is popular for late-night dining. "This isn’t something we’re used to here," said business owner Carlos Mendez, whose security cameras may have captured footage. Community leaders announced a vigil for Monday evening at Union’s Hannah Caldwell Park.

The shooting marks New Jersey’s 14th mass shooting incident in 2026, per Gun Violence Archive data. Federal lawmakers are expected to reference the case in upcoming debates over proposed firearms legislation. Anyone with information is urged to contact Union PD’s tip line at (908) 851-5000.