Exclusive | Dad of slain Newark detective calls son’s murder by 14-year-old suspect ‘a pain that is indescribable’

A Father’s Unimaginable Grief: The Loss of Detective Joseph Azcona

Jose Azcona, the father of murdered Newark police detective Joseph Azcona, described the pain of losing his son as “indescribable.” Just 48 hours after the tragic event, Jose, 52, struggled to find words to express his grief. “It’s a pain that — It’s a pain that is indescribable,” he told The Post in a moment of raw emotion. Speaking in Spanish, he repeated, “I have no words for the pain. No words. I have no words.” The sudden and violent death of his 26-year-old son has left him and his family shattered, grappling with an unbearable loss.

A Hero’s Untimely Demise: The Circumstances of the Shooting

Detective Joseph Azcona, a five-year veteran of the Newark Police Department, was fatally shot during a violent confrontation in the crime-plagued city of Newark, New Jersey. According to Essex County prosecutors, Detective Azcona was ambushed before he even had the chance to exit his police car. He was pronounced dead at the hospital early Saturday morning. The suspect, a 14-year-old teenager, allegedly fired nearly 30 bullets from an automatic weapon before being wounded by return fire. The young suspect now faces murder charges, though legal experts say he will not be tried as an adult due to his age.

A Community Rocked by Tragedy: The Aftermath of the Shooting

The shooting occurred near a McDonald’s and White Castle at the intersection of Carteret Street and Broadway. Detective Azcona’s partner was also injured in the exchange of gunfire, adding to the tragedy. Jose Azcona, despite his unimaginable loss, has already returned to work at his Newark liquor store, a testament to his resilience. He acknowledged the strong support from the community, which has helped the family navigate their grief. “With time we will heal, but for now, I’m speechless,” he said. “We will miss him forever.”

A Nation Mourns: Outpouring of Condolences and Outrage

The slaying of Detective Azcona has sent shockwaves across the nation, sparking widespread outrage and an outpouring of condolences. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch expressed her condolences on behalf of the entire New York City Police Department, writing, “The entire NYPD is mourning the loss of @NewarkNJPolice Detective Joseph Azcona. Every day, officers put their lives on the line to protect others, and today, we are painfully reminded of the sacrifices they make.”

A Call for Change: The Broader Implications of the Tragedy

The senseless murder of Detective Azcona has raised questions about systemic failures in addressing juvenile crime and violence. NJ State PBA President Peter Andreyev called the killing “outrageous and shocking,” stating, “The fact that some 14-year-old decides to assassinate a New Jersey officer shows the failure of so many systems.” Andreyev’s comments highlight the broader societal issues that contribute to such tragedies, urging action to prevent similar incidents in the future.

A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice: Remembering a Fallen Hero

Detective Joseph Azcona’s death is a stark reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily to protect their communities. His loss has left a void that can never be filled, but his legacy of service and courage will endure. As the nation mourns his death, it is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and to honor their commitment to public safety. The community’s support and solidarity during this dark time serve as a testament to the enduring bond between law enforcement and the people they serve.