Newark St. Patrick’s Day Parade Postponed To Honor Slain Officer

NEWARK, NJ — The 2025 Newark St. Patrick’s Day Parade is being postponed after a local police officer was fatally shot last weekend.

The parade was originally scheduled for Friday, March 14. It will now take place on Friday, March 21 (see details below).

A 14-year-old suspect has been accused of shooting two officers on Friday night in Newark. Officer Joseph Azcona, 25, died, and the other officer is recovering in the hospital. The teen gunman was also wounded and hospitalized, authorities said.

A funeral is scheduled to take place at 10:30 a.m. on Friday at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, 89 Ridge Street in Newark.

>> Read More: Cop Fatally Shot In Newark, Teen Arrested (What We Know So Far)

The Newark St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee announced Monday that it is postponing the annual event out of respect for the deceased.

“To all public servants who dedicate their lives to the safety and well-being of our city, especially our brothers and sisters in law enforcement, we offer our deepest sympathies during this time of profound loss,” the committee wrote in a joint statement.

“For over 90 years, the Newark St. Patrick's Day Parade has been proudly led by many of Newark's finest,” the committee continued. “We are deeply grateful for the men and women who serve and protect our community daily.”

NEW PARADE DETAILS

The 2025 Newark St. Patrick's Day Parade will now take place at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 21. It will include music, dancing and Irish heritage displays.

Here is the schedule and route (article continues below):

• 10 am - The Transferred FEAST of SAINT PATRICK MASS OFFERED for DECEASED MEMBERS Abbot Augustine Curley, O.S.B. — Celebrant, and Homilist St. Patrick's Pro-Cathedral - 91 Washington Street, Newark, NJ
• Noon - REVIEWING STAND CEREMONIES
• 1 pm - THE SAINT PATRICK'S DAY PARADE Prudential Center - Four Gateway Center - NJPAC - St. Patrick's Pro-Cathedral. Feature: The 12th Annual Saint Patrick's Day High School Band Competition
• 2:30 pm - PRESENTATION of the HIGH SCHOOL BAND COMPETITION AWARDS Winners of the Saint Patrick's Day High School Band Competition Outside Kilkenny Alehouse - 27 Central Avenue
• 2:30 pm - POST-PARADE RECEPTION Kilkenny Alehouse - 27 Central Avenue

The 2025 parade is dedicated to the memory of Sean Patrick Sweeney, a cherished member of Newark's Irish-American community. According to organizers:

“Sean's unwavering dedication to family, faith, and community embodied the true spirit of Irish heritage. He was a loyal supporter of the Newark Parade and inspired all who knew him. His legacy will be honored throughout this special anniversary parade.”

Other dignitaries include:

GRAND MARSHAL

Sean McGovern, a Newark native and respected attorney, will lead this historic parade. Sean's deep Irish roots trace to Counties Cavan, Leitrim, and Mayo. An Essex Catholic High School, Rutgers University, and Quinnipiac University School of Law graduate, Sean has dedicated his career to justice and community service. He owns and manages the iconic McGovern's Tavern in Newark, preserving its role as a community and cultural hub. Sean's family has a proud legacy in the Newark Parade, with his Great Uncle Frank McGovern serving as Grand Marshal in 1960 and his grandfather Frank Darcy in 1965. Sean and his wife, Jennifer, have four children: Ciara, Jack, Dylan, and Maggie.

DEPUTY GRAND MARSHALS

Maura Seton Campbell, a lifelong educator and community leader, resides in Cranford, NJ, with her husband, Tim McKenna. Her Irish lineage includes a rich family history of contributions to Irish heritage, including her grandfather, George Bell, the 1961 Grand Marshal. Maura is an active member of the Joseph E. Nugent Association and The Daughters of Ireland. Her ties to Newark Parade run deep, and she marches with pride in honor of her family, past and present.

John Gethins, a longtime supporter of Irish heritage and community involvement, hails from Newark, NJ. With family roots in County Cavan and Sligo, Ireland, John has been a dedicated advocate for Irish traditions and the Newark Parade. He is a proud member of multiple Irish-American organizations and inspires others through his active leadership and passion for the Irish community.

Tim McConway, a respected community member, carries on a family legacy of supporting Irish culture and traditions. Born to Irish immigrant parents, Tim grew up immersed in Newark's Irish-American community. A committed volunteer, he has participated in numerous charitable initiatives supporting local organizations and Irish causes abroad. His love of Irish heritage and dedication to service have earned him great respect throughout the community.

Father John McCrone, an esteemed pastor, proudly upholds the values of faith and Irish culture within the Newark community. With family ties to Counties Cork and Roscommon, he advocates celebrating heritage through faith and fellowship. Father McCrone has supported countless Irish organizations and served as a spiritual guide for the community, promoting unity and cultural pride.

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