2 Suspects Killed By New Jersey Cop In Newark, Authorities Say

A New Jersey cop shot two people dead overnight, authorities said.

The Jersey City officer, who was not identified, killed the two people when they tried to rob him in Newark, officials said Monday.

The preliminary investigation indicates that at approximately 11:30 p.m. Sunday, the off-duty Jersey City police officer shot and killed two men who allegedly were attempting to rob him. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. The incident occurred in the 100 block of South 6th Street in Newark, according to the Essex County Prosecutor's Office.

The men have been identified as Dante Holden, 19, of East Orange and Tymyr Wilson, 21, of East Orange.

Information gathered so far indicates the police officer was dropping off an acquaintance and two children when they were confronted by the alleged robbers. Both suspects were armed. One suspect apparently attempted to fire at the officer but the weapon jammed.

The investigation is active and ongoing. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Essex County Prosecutor's Office Professional Standards Bureau at 862-520-3700.

Patch file photo