WMBCTV: Fallen Police Detective to be Honored at Funeral

It will be a day of remembrance today in Newark as fallen Police Detective Joseph Azcona, a young and decorated officer will be honored. Many in the community say Azcona was a person who loved his job and was willing to help others.

His funeral will take place at 10:30 this morning at the Cathedral Basilica Roman Catholic Church, where dignitaries from federal, state, and local agencies will join grieving family, friends, and fellow officers to pay their final respects. The family gathered for a private wake yesterday and residents held a vigil and balloon release Wednesday evening.  

While the funeral is expected to be held later this morning, an investigation does remain ongoing. 

Azcona, a five-year veteran of the force, was only 26 years old when he was killed during a police operation targeting illegal weapons. The Essex County Prosecutor says a 14-year-old suspect is being charged with murder, attempted murder and possession of illegal weapons, while 5 other people were taken into custody.

Law enforcement officials say that Detective Azcona’s sacrifice serves as a powerful reminder of the risks and challenges officers confront each day to keep our community safe. They say that the community members need to look out for one another.

Officials also say several streets surrounding the Cathedral will be closed throughout the morning to accommodate the funeral procession, and drivers are advised to seek alternate routes. The affected roads include parts of Clifton, Mt. Prospect, and 7th Avenues as well as Garside, Cutler and Stone Streets.

As the community continues to mourn the loss of fallen Detective Azcona, city officials have decided to fly the flags at half staff.