The defendants — a 17-year-old from North East, Maryland, and an 18-year-old from Wilmington — each face seven counts of attempted murder in the first degree, eight counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, conspiracy and endangerment. The 17-year-old is being held at a juvenile facility pending extradition to Delaware, while the 18-year-old is in police custody. A state law enacted to limit the release of suspects' names and photos prevents authorities from publicly identifying either defendant unless doing so is deemed necessary for public safety.

The shooting broke out just after 11 p.m. on East Main Street, where dozens of teenagers had gathered in raucous crowds despite efforts by Newark police to discourage what authorities described as a "teen takeover" planned on social media. Seven people between the ages of 15 and 21 were injured, including one University of Delaware student. Four young victims remained hospitalized as of the announcement.

Surveillance footage showed the suspects fleeing in a car roughly 30 seconds after gunfire erupted, according to police.

"This is not normal," Chief Deputy Attorney General Dan Logan said at a press conference. "This is not ok. This is not acceptable."

Newark Mayor Travis McDermott also spoke forcefully about the violence.

"Let me be clear: Violence has no place in the city of Newark," McDermott said. "No one should have to fear for their safety while enjoying our downtown, or attending school, or going about their daily lives."

In a further twist, one of the victims — a 16-year-old boy — was found to have a loaded handgun on him while receiving treatment for his injuries and now faces charges of his own.

Newark Police Chief Mark Farrall said the investigation is ongoing, including into how the firearms were acquired. Delaware lawmakers passed a law in 2022 requiring handgun buyers to be at least 21 years old.

The bloodshed in Newark was part of a violent Halloween night across Delaware. In Ellendale, 17-year-old Love Cannon of Seaford was killed and several other teens were treated for gunshot wounds after gunfire broke out at a Halloween party.

The Newark shooting has renewed scrutiny of teen takeovers — large, loosely organized gatherings promoted on social media — and of the flow of guns into the hands of young people. Community leaders and university officials have been grappling with how to keep downtown Newark safe for students and residents alike.

Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact Newark police.