Bullet vs. Phone: Shooting Victim Catches Lucky Break In New Jersey, Police Say

NEWARK, NJ — He walked away unharmed, authorities said. That was the fluke of fate that happened in Newark last week when a gunman’s bullet ricocheted off an iPhone in a victim’s pocket – possibly saving the person’s life.

According to the Newark Department of Public Safety, an aggravated assault shooting took place in the city on May 8.

Here’s what happened, authorities said:

“Police responded to a call about a shooting in progress on the 400-block of South 19th Street. When officers arrived, they located a victim who was not injured by the gunfire. At approximately 10:50 a.m., the victim and another individual argued and fought over the victim’s scooter. That person drew a gun and fired at the victim. The bullet struck an iPhone in the victim’s pocket, and officers recovered one bullet in the street.”

Newark police released a surveillance photo of the alleged shooter (see below).

Authorities said anyone with information can call the Police Division’s 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477). Anonymous tips can also be made using the Police Division’s website.

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