A packed Halloween celebration near the University of Delaware turned violent late Thursday night when gunfire erupted on Main Street in Newark, leaving six people wounded and crowds of college students fleeing in terror as emergency responders descended on the scene.
Panic Erupts on Crowded Street
The shooting occurred just after 11 p.m. along Main Street near Choate Street, where hundreds of students and Halloween revelers had gathered. Witnesses described hearing sharp popping sounds that initially confused bystanders before mass panic set in. Jayden Ngalim, who was present during the incident, recounted seeing people running and screaming as police helicopters arrived overhead, shining searchlights on the chaotic scene below. The sudden violence transformed a festive atmosphere into a frantic scramble for safety within moments.
Nathaniel Davila was standing on a nearby corner when the shooting began. He initially mistook the gunshots for car backfires before the crowd suddenly scattered. University officials issued an emergency alert at 11:29 p.m., warning the campus community to avoid the area entirely. All six victims were transported to local hospitals, though authorities have not released information about their conditions or the severity of their injuries.
Bystander Steps Up to Save Lives
Amid the chaos, witness Landon Singleton demonstrated remarkable courage by rushing toward the wounded rather than fleeing. He discovered a young victim lying on his back, surrounded by friends who appeared paralyzed by shock and uncertainty about how to help. Without hesitation, Singleton removed his own shirt, folded it, and applied direct pressure to the gunshot wound. The injured young man squeezed Singleton’s hand in what the good Samaritan later described as a desperate grasp for hope during an intensely chaotic moment.
Investigation Continues as Questions Mount
Newark police have remained tight-lipped about the investigation, providing no updates on suspect apprehensions or details about what sparked the violence. Main Street remained closed until approximately 3 a.m. Sunday as investigators processed the crime scene. The department has requested that anyone with information contact Detective Paige Klein directly or submit tips through their online portal. The incident raises serious questions about campus safety and public security during large gatherings, particularly as colleges nationwide grapple with managing both student freedom and community protection during major celebrations.