Newark police responded to a harrowing incident Friday night at the Extra Supermarket on Lyons Avenue in the Weequahic neighborhood. According to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, a driver entered the parking lot around 7 p.m. and, believing a black garbage bag lay in the roadway, struck a woman who was actually standing there.

Sequence of Events

The driver reported that she was traveling south on Sherman Avenue when she hit what she thought was a black garbage bag. After the collision, the driver continued to the supermarket, entered the store to purchase items, and then returned to her vehicle. When she attempted to shift the car into reverse, the vehicle would not move. At that point, the driver exited the car, walked around it, and finally saw the woman underneath the vehicle.

Realizing the severity of the situation, the driver alerted a security officer, who promptly called 911. Emergency responders arrived, but the victim, whose identity has not yet been released, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigation Ongoing

Police have not released any additional details regarding the victim or the driver. The prosecutor’s office indicated that there is currently no information about whether the driver will face charges. The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the tragic death.

Community Impact

The incident has shocked residents of the Weequahic neighborhood and raised concerns about safety in busy parking areas. While the driver’s mistake appears to have been a tragic misidentification, the loss of life underscores the importance of vigilance for both drivers and pedestrians in crowded public spaces.

Local officials have not yet issued a statement, but the community is urged to remain cautious and report any suspicious activity or hazards that could lead to similar accidents.

What to Know

• Location: Extra Supermarket parking lot, Lyons Avenue, Newark, New Jersey.
• Time: Just before 7 p.m. on Friday, November 9, 2026.
• Victim: Unidentified woman, pronounced dead at the scene.
• Driver: Reported believing she hit a black garbage bag; no charges announced.
• Investigation: Ongoing, with the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office leading the effort.

Authorities continue to ask anyone with additional information to contact Newark police. The community is reminded to stay alert, especially in high‑traffic areas, to help prevent future tragedies.

Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.