Newark Mourns Young Victims of Weekend Shootings

Newark is reeling from a profoundly tragic weekend that saw two lives cut short by gun violence, including a devastating loss for a family and the city itself. A 10-year-old child and a 21-year-old woman were killed in separate shootings, leaving officials and community members demanding answers and urging the perpetrators to come forward.

A ‘Dark Weekend’ for Newark

Essex County Prosecutor Theodore Stephens II described the past weekend as a “dark weekend” for the region. The violence has sent shockwaves through Newark, a city that has, in recent years, managed to buck the national trend of rising murder rates. After reporting 81 murders in 2022, the city had seen a significant decrease, with only 38 murders recorded so far this year, making these recent events particularly jarring.

Authorities have not yet indicated whether the shootings are gang-related or provided any information regarding a motive. As of Monday, November 17, 2025, no arrests have been made, intensifying the urgency for information and justice.

Victims Identified, Community Demands Justice

The victims have been identified as 21-year-old Kiyah Mae Scott and 10-year-old Jordan Garcia. Tragically, three other individuals were injured in the violence: Garcia’s 11-year-old brother, Masi Rogers (19), and Sheppard Miller (60). The city is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to arrests.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka issued a strong plea for the shooters to surrender immediately, stating, “The community is on alert, on lookout, and we will make sure that justice is done.” Surveillance footage captured the harrowing moments on Saturday when two gunmen opened fire on a group outside a liquor store, striking the victims.

A Mother’s Grief and a Plea for Accountability

Kiyah Mae Scott, a young mother, was reportedly out picking up an item from the store when she was caught in the crossfire. Her mother, Annette Ryan, described Kiyah as “outgoing, loving to her family and friends,” and a devoted mother who “loved her son dearly.” This heartbreaking loss comes seven years after Ryan lost another daughter to cancer, adding an unimaginable layer of grief.

You reap what you sow. Everybody has family. You me be the one that may be sitting in my seat one day – your family. Your child. — Annette Ryan, Mother of Kiyah Mae Scott

Ryan’s message to the killers is a powerful testament to the universal pain of loss and a plea for empathy and accountability. Meanwhile, Jordan Garcia’s 11-year-old brother, Masi Rogers, and Sheppard Miller remain hospitalized, with Rogers in critical condition, according to Prosecutor Stephens.