N.J. Firefighters Argue, Gunshot Follows: Newark Police

Newark, NJ – Authorities arrested a veteran Newark firefighter after he allegedly fired a shot through a fellow firefighter’s door during a home dispute on Tuesday night.

According to the Newark Police Department, the argument reportedly took place around 10:30 p.m. at the Clifton Avenue home of Gamil B. Haidara, an eight-year veteran of the fire department.

On arrival at the apartment building, officers met with the 42-year-old victim, also a firefighter, who told officers that he and Haidara are neighbors.

The victim told police that after he and Haidara got into an argument that night, Haidara allegedly pulled out a gun and chased him downstairs to his own apartment.

At that time, Haidara allegedly fired one shot into the victim’s door and then fled the building, Newark police stated.

Two Newark officers passing through the area allegedly heard a gunshot and responded to Mount Prospect Street, where they observed Haidara running down the street with the gun in his hand, police said.

After the officers ordered Haidara to stop, he complied and was arrested without further incident, police stated.

Emergency responders transported Haidara to a local hospital where he was treated for unspecified symptoms, police said.

Acting Newark Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose announced on Wednesday that Haidara was immediately suspended.

Authorities have charged Haidara with multiple weapons offenses, including discharging a firearm within city limits and unlawful possession of a weapon.

Although Haidara is in custody, an investigation is continuing with an arson squad reviewing the entire incident to determine if the actions of both firefighters complied with their department’s rules and regulations, Ambrose stated.

A criminal investigation is also ongoing, authorities stated.

Police are asking anyone with information to contact the department’s 24-hour Crime Stoppers’ tip line at 877 NWK-TIPS (877 695-8477) or NWK-GUNS (877 695-4867).

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