NEW JERSEY – A Newark police sergeant has been charged with aggravated manslaughter and vehicular homicide in connection with the death of Jairo Rodriguez, a beloved traffic control officer known for entertaining fans outside the Prudential Center.
Sergeant Victor Ortiz, who was off duty at the time of the incident, allegedly struck Rodriguez on Dec. 11 while he was directing traffic on Lafayette Street after an event at the Prudential Center in Newark.
Rodriguez, 53, later died at the hospital.
Ortiz was also hospitalized in stable condition following the crash.
Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II and Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda announced the charges Thursday.
Ortiz surrendered to authorities and is being held at the Essex County Jail, awaiting a court appearance.
Rodriguez, a father of three, was cherished by the Newark community for his joyful personality. Known for dancing and entertaining concertgoers and Devils fans, his warmth left a lasting impression, according to residents.
“Always dancing & having fun with everyone while working late & cold nights on the streets. If you met him, you loved him,” one resident posted on X.
“TCO Rodriguez was highly respected and beloved by all who worked with him,” Director Miranda said. “Due to his consistent demeanor of kindness, warmth, and sincerity, he was immediately embraced as a dear Brother in Blue.”
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office says they are continuing its investigation.
