Six People Killed In Jersey City Shootout

A gun battle erupted Tuesday in Jersey City NJ, leaving at least six people dead, including one police officer. Two more officers were wounded.

Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop tweeted: “2 officers struck by gun fire. One of the officers tragically has given his life. 2 other officers receiving medical treatment at the jcmc for injuries unrelated. Please keep these officers in your prayers.”

The AP reports:

Sporadic, heavy gunfire rang out over the course of at least an hour along a major thoroughfare but has quieted down. SWAT teams, state police and federal agents responded to the scene, and police blocked off the area, which, in addition to the school, has some stores, a kosher supermarket and a hair stylist.

The New York Times adds, “Two people opened fire around a convenience store, officials said, touching off a firefight involving dozens of law enforcement officers that made the residential area take on the feel of a war zone. Officials said the dead included three people in the store as well as two suspected shooters.”

NBC News reports that the slain officer had been investigating a murder when the suspects opened fire.

The shooting prompted all 43 of Jersey City’s schools to go on lockdown; no students or staff were injured in the incident.

A reporter for New York’s NBC affiliate was broadcasting live as multiple shots rang out (watch above).

No word on the motive yet or identities of the suspects.