Delaware Prosecutors Charge Two Teens in Halloween Mass Shooting
Seven people were injured in Newark; one victim, a 16-year-old, is also facing criminal charges.
By Beatriz Soto ·
The Delaware attorney general’s office indicted two teenagers on charges stemming from the mass shooting in Newark on the night of Halloween. A 17-year-old and an 18-year-old face seven counts of attempted murder in the first degree. They are also charged with eight counts of possessing a firearm during the commission of a felony, conspiracy, and endangerment.
Chief Deputy Attorney General Dan Logan told reporters the incident was unacceptable. “This is not normal,” Logan said. “This is not ok. This is not acceptable.” The prosecution’s decision to charge the minors reflects the severity of the injuries sustained by the victims.
Seven people were wounded in the shooting, with ages ranging from 15 to 21. One of the injured is a University of Delaware student. Four victims remain hospitalized. Newark police stated they monitored social media in the days prior to the event, observing plans for large gatherings known as “teen takeovers.” Officers worked to discourage participation in these events.
Dozens of teenagers gathered in downtown Newark when gunfire erupted just after 11 p.m. on East Main Street. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with Halloween revelers fleeing for their lives. Surveillance footage captured the suspects fleeing the scene in a car approximately 30 seconds after the shots were fired.
The 17-year-old suspect is from North East, Maryland, and is currently held in a juvenile facility awaiting extradition to Delaware. The 18-year-old suspect is from Wilmington and is also in police custody. A state law enacted recently prevents law enforcement from releasing the names or photos of the suspects unless necessary to protect public safety.
Newark Mayor Travis McDermott addressed the community, stating that violence has no place in the city. “No one should have to fear for their safety while enjoying our downtown, or attending school, or going about their daily lives,” he said. The mayor emphasized the need for residents to feel secure in public spaces.
Investigators found a loaded handgun on a 16-year-old victim while he was being treated for his injuries. The teen now also faces charges. Police continue to investigate how the guns were acquired, noting that Delaware lawmakers passed a law in 2022 requiring handgun buyers to be at least 21 years old. Gun violence also occurred at a Halloween party in Ellendale that same night, where 17-year-old Love Cannon of Seaford was killed.
