NEWARK, N.J. – A traffic control officer in Newark, New Jersey was killed after being struck by a car while on duty on Thursday, officials said.
At approximately 12:42 a.m., on Dec. 14, police responded to Lafayette Street on a call that Traffic Control Officer, Jairo Rodriguez, 53, was struck while directing traffic following an event at Prudential Center, police said.
Police said Rodriguez was unresponsive at the scene. Rodriguez was taken to University Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 1:37 a.m.
The driver remained at the scene and was transported to St. Michael’s Hospital for treatment, police said.
Police said the driver is reportedly in stable condition.
“This tragic news is heartbreaking on so many levels,” Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka said. “The pain of losing a public servant committed to keeping drivers and pedestrians safe is difficult enough.
Rodriguez joined the Newark Department of Public Safety in 2022. Before working at the Newark Department of Public Safety, he worked at the Prudential Arena.
“TCO Rodriguez was highly respected and beloved by all who worked with him,” Public Safety Director Emanuel 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 is investigating this incident.
“We deeply mourn this incredible loss and pray for the comfort and strength of his wife and two daughters,” Director Miranda said.
