NEWARK, N.J. (1010 WINS) — Newark traffic control officer Jairo Rodriguez was struck and killed by an off-duty sergeant early Thursday morning as he directed vehicles outside the Prudential Center, authorities said.
Rodriguez, 53, previously worked at the Prudential Center and joined the Newark Department of Public Safety in 2022, Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda said. He leaves behind his wife and two daughters.
“This tragic news is heartbreaking on so many levels,” Newark Mayor Ras Baraka said. “The pain of losing a public servant committed to keeping drivers and pedestrians safe is difficult enough. But learning that TCO Rodriguez was struck while on duty, directing traffic, is devastating.”
Police responded to Lafayette Street at about 12:42 a.m. after receiving a call of a traffic control officer struck while directing vehicles following a concert by Dominican-Americana bachata band Aventura that was held at the Prudential Center.
Responding officers found Rodriguez unresponsive at the scene. He was transported to University Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 1:37 a.m.
According to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, the person who struck Rodriguez is an off-duty Newark police sergeant. The sergeant remained at the scene and was transported to St. Michael’s Hospital in stable condition.
“TCO Rodriguez was highly respected and beloved by all who worked with him,” Miranda said. “Due to his consistent demeanor of kindness, warmth, and sincerity, he was immediately embraced as a dear Brother in Blue. As TCO, he faithfully directed traffic and monitored the City’s bus lanes and parking meters. We deeply mourn this incredible loss and pray for the comfort and strength of his wife and two daughters."
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the incident.