Newark, N.J. — Tragedy struck the Newark community as 9-year-old Yasin Morrison was shot and killed outside his grandparents’ home on Osborne Terrace. The heartbreaking incident occurred on Friday evening when Yasin’s father was dropping him and his 3-year-old sister off for the weekend.
Police have arrested 36-year-old Jesse Dunbarr, who now faces first-degree murder charges in connection with the child’s death.
What Happened on Friday Evening
According to authorities, Yasin and his family were getting out of their car when Dunbarr opened fire, hitting Yasin, another man, and grazing Yasin’s father.
- Yasin was rushed to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
- The other man and Yasin’s father sustained non-life-threatening injuries and are expected to recover.
“We just heard gunshots,” said Yasin’s grandmother, Tisha Bolden, recalling the terrifying moment. “The next thing we saw was Yasin laying on the sidewalk.”
Family Reacts to the Arrest
For Yasin’s grieving family, news of an arrest offers some relief, but it cannot erase the pain.
“I feel elated that the city rallied around and everybody wouldn’t stop until they got somebody,” Bolden said.
However, the grief of losing Yasin weighs heavily on them. “I’m happy they caught the person, but it will never bring us Yasin back,” said his aunt, Lataisha Morrison.
A Life Full of Love and Memories
Yasin’s family remembers him as a bright light who brought joy and taught them valuable life lessons in his short time.
- “If you ever had one of his hugs, you would remember it for the rest of your life,” Bolden said, holding back tears.
- His aunt shared fond memories of trips to the park and the supermarket, cherishing the everyday moments they had together.
“He taught me unconditional love, patience, and humility,” Bolden added. “I’m going to miss that every day.”
Ongoing Investigation
Police have not yet revealed the motive behind the shooting, but further details are expected at a news conference on Thursday. As the investigation continues, the Newark community mourns the loss of a young life taken too soon, while holding onto memories of a boy who touched the hearts of many.
