In the early hours of Sunday, a violent altercation between two groups led to a shooting incident that left five people injured in Mackenzie, Linden. The confrontation, which occurred at Dakama Circle, Five Corner Junction, has sent shockwaves through the community and raised concerns about rising tensions in the area.
According to police reports, the incident stemmed from a heated dispute between two groups of known individuals. As the confrontation escalated, at least three suspects drew firearms and discharged multiple shots, resulting in several injuries.
The victims of this violent clash include:
- Rondel Rodney, 27, who suffered a gunshot wound to his right leg
- Tyrone Newton, 21, shot in his right foot
- A 17-year-old male (name withheld) with a gunshot wound to his left hand
- Brian Johnson, 25, who was stabbed in his right eye
- Gladston Bristol, 31, who sustained a chop wound to his head
Bristol, who is suspected of being one of the shooters, is currently under police guard at the hospital. Rodney, despite being injured, is also considered a suspect and is under police surveillance.
Law enforcement officials swiftly responded to the scene. During their investigation, police recovered several spent shell casings and live rounds, highlighting the intensity of the firefight.
While initial reports suggested this might have been a clash between rival groups, local residents have been quick to deny the existence of organized gang activity in Linden. However, investigators noted that there has historically been a rivalry between individuals from different areas of Linden.
In a surprising twist, eyewitnesses later came forward with claims that the incident may have originated from a minor traffic collision following a party. This new information challenges the initial narrative and suggests that a trivial dispute spiraled out of control.
As the investigation continues, police are still searching for additional suspects. The police have stated that “investigations are still ongoing,” while local investigators have assured the public that they are “on top of the case”.
This incident has reignited discussions about public safety and conflict resolution in Linden. Community leaders are calling for increased police presence and community-based initiatives to prevent such violent outbursts in the future.
As Linden grapples with the aftermath of this shocking event, residents are left wondering about the underlying tensions that could turn a disagreement into a hail of gunfire. The coming days and weeks will be crucial as authorities work to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore a sense of security to this shaken community.
