At least six dead in Jersey City shooting -Police
A series of shootings in a busy New Jersey neighborhood, Tuesday, left at least six people dead, including a police officer.
That's according to authorities, who say two suspected gunmen are among the deceased.
The burst of violence in Jersey City - which is across the Hudson River from Lower Manhattan - prompted a massive police presence with local SWAT teams and federal agents rushing in, leading to gunfights and an hours-long standoff.
Police Chief Michael Kelly said there are at least three crime scenes under investigation.
(SOUNDBITE) JERSEY CITY POLICE CHIEF MICHAEL KELLY, SAYING:
“Today around 12:30 we received a call about shots fired in the area of 223 MLK Drive. Units responded and were immediately engaged by high-powered rifle fire. A city wide assist was called. At that time we were learning at the same time we had an officer down in another part of the city... That officer has since been listed as deceased.”
That officer has been identified as Detective Joseph Seals - a married father of five.
Police say they believe the two suspects were male... and their gunfire persistent.
(SOUNDBITE) JERSEY CITY POLICE CHIEF MICHAEL KELLY, SAYING:
"We're not going to get into the details of four hours of police work, but I can tell you their movement was rapid and continuous for four hours in that area."
Schools in the area were placed on lockdown as the situation unfolded.
