Delivery Driver Killed in Newark Carjacking Attempt

Suspect, a juvenile, charged with felony murder and other counts after fleeing the scene

Apr. 10, 2026 at 1:36am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crushed car sensor or piece of vehicle debris, capturing the stark, gritty aftermath of a deadly carjacking incident.The aftermath of a deadly carjacking attempt exposes the grim realities of violent vehicle theft in Newark.Elizabeth Today

A 46-year-old delivery driver was tragically killed in Newark, New Jersey after being dragged and crushed when a suspect stole his vehicle. The juvenile suspect has been arrested and charged with first-degree felony murder, carjacking, and other counts.

Why it matters

Carjackings and violent vehicle thefts have been an ongoing issue in Newark, with the city seeing a rise in these types of crimes in recent years. This incident highlights the dangers delivery drivers face and the need for improved public safety measures to protect workers and residents.

The details

On April 4, the delivery driver, identified as Jhon Aponte Alarcon, had left his vehicle unattended on the street in Newark when a juvenile suspect jumped into the driver's seat. Alarcon tried to stop the theft by holding onto the car, but the vehicle crashed into a parked car, overturning and crushing him. The suspect then fled the scene. Police arrested the juvenile suspect on Tuesday and charged him with first-degree felony murder, carjacking, and other counts.

  • On April 4, the incident occurred around 12:44 p.m.
  • On April 5, Alarcon was pronounced dead at a local hospital.
  • On April 8, police arrested the juvenile suspect.

The players

Jhon Aponte Alarcon

A 46-year-old delivery driver from Elizabeth, New Jersey who was tragically killed during the carjacking attempt.

Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II

The prosecutor who announced the charges against the juvenile suspect.

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What they’re saying

“This has completely shattered our world. One moment he was here, and the next he was gone. Nothing could have prepared us for this kind of pain.”

— Deybyd Aponte, Alarcon's oldest son

What’s next

The juvenile suspect is being held in custody, and the Essex County Prosecutor's Office is urging the public to come forward with any information related to the incident.

The takeaway

This tragic carjacking highlights the ongoing public safety challenges in Newark, where delivery drivers and other workers face risks of violent crime. It underscores the need for improved crime prevention measures and support for victims' families in the community.