Newark Cop Dies After Car Hits Him Near Prudential Center: Police

NEWARK, NJ — A police officer died after a car hit him following an event at the Prudential Center in Newark early Thursday morning, authorities said.

Jairo Rodriguez, 53, a traffic control officer with the Newark Police Department, was hit by a car at 12:42 a.m. while directing traffic on Lafayette Street, according to the Newark Department of Public Safety.

Officers found Rodriguez unresponsive at the scene. He was transported to University Hospital and pronounced dead at 1:37 a.m.

The driver remained at the scene and was transported to Saint Michael’s Medical Center for treatment. He is reportedly in stable condition, authorities said.

Essex County prosecutors said the driver is a Newark police sergeant who was off-duty at the time.

“This tragic news is heartbreaking on so many levels,” Mayor Ras Baraka said, praising Rodriguez’s contributions to the city.

“The pain of losing a public servant committed to keeping drivers and pedestrians safe is difficult enough,” Baraka said. “But learning that TCO Rodriguez was struck while on duty – directing traffic – is devastating.”

Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda said Rodriguez was “highly respected and beloved” by all who worked with him.

“He joined the Newark Department of Public Safety in 2022 and, due to his consistent demeanor of kindness, warmth and sincerity, he was immediately embraced as a dear Brother in Blue,” Miranda said.

“As a traffic control officer, he faithfully directed traffic and monitored the city’s bus lanes and parking meters,” Miranda continued. “Before joining us, he worked at Prudential Arena, where his reputation for impeccable service remains legendary.”

“We deeply mourn this incredible loss and pray for the comfort and strength of his wife and two daughters,” Miranda said.

The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the fatality. No additional information was immediately available, Newark police said.

Traffic-related fatalities are a persistent danger for police officers, with car crashes listed as the third most-common cause of death for officers nationwide, according to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.

This number decreased 27 percent in 2023, when 37 officers died in traffic-related crashes such as single-vehicle accidents, vehicle collisions, struck-by incidents and motorcycle crashes while working along the nation’s roadways, the group says.

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