Secaucus Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Fatal North Bergen Shooting

James Baker pleaded guilty to aggravated manslaughter for the 2024 killing of Juan Ortiz.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 10:07pm

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A 26-year-old man from Secaucus, New Jersey has been sentenced to 20 years in state prison for his role in a fatal shooting that occurred in North Bergen in 2024. James Baker previously pled guilty to aggravated manslaughter for the death of 31-year-old Juan Ortiz.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence in New Jersey communities and the efforts of law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable. The lengthy sentence reflects the severity of the crime and the state's commitment to public safety.

The details

On August 5, 2024, the North Bergen Police Department responded to a report of an injured man in the area of Meadowview Avenue and 61st Street. They found the victim, Juan Ortiz, with apparent gunshot wounds. Ortiz was transported to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead around 9:40 a.m. James Baker, a 26-year-old Secaucus resident, was later arrested and pled guilty to aggravated manslaughter for Ortiz's death.

  • On August 5, 2024, police responded to the shooting incident around 9 a.m.
  • Ortiz was pronounced dead at the hospital around 9:40 a.m. on August 5, 2024.

The players

James Baker

A 26-year-old man from Secaucus, New Jersey who pled guilty to aggravated manslaughter for the 2024 killing of Juan Ortiz.

Juan Ortiz

A 31-year-old man from North Bergen, New Jersey who was fatally shot in 2024.

Wayne Mello

The Hudson County Prosecutor who announced the 20-year sentence for James Baker.

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What they’re saying

“This case highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence in New Jersey communities and the efforts of law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable.”

— Wayne Mello, Hudson County Prosecutor

What’s next

The sentence is subject to the No Early Release Act, so Baker must serve the full 20 years in prison.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for continued efforts to address gun violence and improve public safety in New Jersey neighborhoods. The lengthy prison sentence demonstrates the justice system's commitment to holding violent offenders accountable and protecting communities.