Tip Leads to Arrest in Shooting of Five People

A man who police said took part in a shooting May 2 that wounded five people, including a 10-year-old girl, was arrested Thursday with the help of an anonymous tip, Det. Todd McClendon of the Newark Police Department said.

Noel Johnson, 18, is believed to be one of three gunmen who opened fire on a crowd that had gathered near 803 S. 16th St. for an impromptu memorial for a man killed in a car accident days earlier. Among the victims was the girl, who was shot in the ankle.

The three were also allegedly involved in a second shooting that occurred 11 pm, about an hour after the shooting on S. 16th St., in which a man reported having his car struck by gunfire near 30 Kent St. The man was unhurt, McClendon said.

Police had previously captured the two other men but Johnson remained at large until Thursday.  

Johnson is also suspected of pistol-whipping a 43-year-old woman May 8 during  an argument, police said. That incident occurred at 588 S. 10th St.

A few days ago, police issued an appeal to the community for information on Johnson’s whereabouts. A tip led police to 1049 18th Ave., where Johnson and another man, Malik Folger, 37, were arrested Thursday. Folger was allegedly in possession of marijuana as well as a .38-caliber gun and several boxes of ammunition.

"I would first like to thank the members of our community who have taken a stand and refuse to remain silent in the wake of crime and violence in our community. The active role taken by our residents has undoubtedly prevented countless tragedies within our community,” said Police Director Samuel DeMaio.