Police are investigating the shooting death of a 17-year-old boy in Roselle, N.J., across the street from an elementary school.
Damel Mitchell was shot dead at Sylvester Land Memorial Field, near Polk Elementary School, at about 10:30 a.m. Monday, according to officials.
People who heard the gunfire said they initially thought it may have been students playing with fireworks on their day off from school this Presidents Day.
Detectives were investigating the shooting Monday and were working to establish a motive.
“This is a startling incident and one that has no place in the city of Roselle or anywhere,” said Mayor Jamel Holley. “I ask my fellow residents to be vigilant, report suspicious behavior, and to stand with police against any criminal that seeks to disrupt our peaceful way of life.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Union County Crimestoppers at 908-654-TIPS or at uctip.org.
