Updated: ‘Active Criminal Investigation’ Underway in Maplewood, Says Police Chief

Update at 11 a.m. on Oct. 17: Katherine Carter of the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office stated that the incident “was not a homicide” and that more information will be provided on Wednesday. Carter said no other details of the criminal investigation were available at this time, including the specifics of the crime and how many people were involved.

MAPLEWOOD, NJ – An active criminal investigation is being conducted in Maplewood, stated Police Chief Jim DeVaul in a press release on Tuesday night.

Maplewood police are working in conjunction with the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office on the investigation stated DeVaul, adding “details of the investigation will not be released at this time” and “additional information will be released as soon as possible.”

The press release stated that “residents are asked to call 911 to report any suspicious persons, vehicles or activity. Residents should be aware of their surroundings especially if walking alone and not provide personal information to strangers. Do not open your door to strangers, talk thru an open window if you have to. Call 911 immediately if possibly being followed. Parents are asked to have conversations with their children on safety and instruct them to call 911 first in the event of an emergency.”

The press release also stated that “until further notice, the Maplewood Police will have addition personnel assigned to ensure the safety of our community,” and that updates will be provided as the investigation continues and information becomes available.