HACKENSACK, N.J. — A 21-year-old man was found shot to death in a Hackensack apartment Friday afternoon, sending shockwaves through the Bergen County community and prompting a multi-agency homicide investigation.
The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office (BCPO) said Hackensack police were dispatched to an apartment complex just before 2:00 p.m. following a report of an unresponsive person. Upon arrival, officers discovered the young man suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite immediate life-saving measures, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have not yet released the victim’s name pending notification of his next of kin.
Police Presence and Forensic Search
The quiet neighborhood was soon flooded with flashing lights as police cruisers and emergency vehicles lined the street. Detectives from the BCPO Major Crimes Unit, along with the Hackensack Police Department, established a large perimeter around the building, barring residents from entering while forensic teams processed the scene.
Investigators were observed photographing the apartment’s entrance, collecting ballistic evidence, and knocking on neighboring doors to gather witness statements. Technicians also began reviewing security camera footage from nearby buildings in hopes of tracing the suspect’s movements.
No Arrests, No Clear Motive
As of Friday night, no arrests had been made. Authorities have not publicly identified any suspects, and the motive for the shooting remains unclear. The BCPO confirmed that detectives are actively pursuing leads and following up on multiple tips.
“This is an active and ongoing investigation,” the Prosecutor’s Office said in a brief statement. “We urge anyone with knowledge of this incident to come forward.”
Community Reaction
Neighbors described the incident as deeply unsettling, especially in a community where violent crime is relatively rare.
“It’s scary to think something like this could happen just a few doors down,” said one resident, who asked not to be named. “This is normally a safe, quiet building. Everyone is on edge now.”
Another neighbor reported hearing “a loud bang” earlier in the day but did not immediately realize it was a gunshot.
Call for Public Assistance
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at (201) 646-2300 or the Hackensack Police Department at (201) 646-7777. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at bergencrimestoppers.org.
The investigation is expected to continue through the weekend, with law enforcement officials vowing to provide updates as soon as new information becomes available.