On Thursday, December 16, 2021 at approximately 11:45 a.m., the Jersey City Police Department responded to the area of 600 Communipaw Avenue in Jersey City on a report of shots fired. Upon their arrival, officers found an unresponsive male victim with apparent gunshot wound(s). The male was later identified as Pedro Rodriguez, a 16-year old Jersey City high school student. Rodriguez was pronounced dead at the scene. The Regional Medical Examiner later determined the cause of death to be multiple gunshot wounds and rule the death a homicide.
A 17-year old juvenile was arrested and charged yesterday with Rodriguez’s murder. The juvenile surrendered to Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office homicide detectives and was lodged in the Morris County Juvenile Detention Center, where he is being held pending a first appearance. According to a press release issued by the Office, a second arrest is expected.
The Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office is actively investigating the case with assistance from the Jersey City Police Department. Anyone with information is being asked to contact the Office at 201-915-1345 or to leave an anonymous tip on the Office’s official website at: https://www.hudsoncountyprosecutorsofficenj.org/homicide-tip/.
The 17-year old juvenile was charged with Murder and associated weapons offenses. In light of the juvenile’s age and the severity of the charges, it is possible that the State will seek to have him waived up and prosecuted as an adult, which would dramatically increase his exposure.
If you or someone you know has been arrested and charged with a crime or is facing potential waiver to adult court, it is imperative that you contact an experience juvenile defense attorney. Alissa D. Hascup, Esq. has defended juveniles throughout New Jersey that are charged with serious offenses. She will explore every avenue in your matter and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible result. Ms. Hascup is available 24/7 for a free initial consultation to discuss the specifics of your case. Contact her office without delay.
