A Ghanaian-American councilwoman in New Jersey was fatally shot outside her home on Wednesday in an incident authorities labeled as a possible targeted attack. According to ABC News, officials also described Eunice Dwumfour’s killing as “shocking” and “senseless.”
Officials said the suspect who killed the Republican Party council member opened fire on her as she was in her vehicle. Police said Dwumfour was shot multiple times and was pronounced dead at the scene. Sources also told the news outlet that the fatal incident occurred after the deceased mother and politician dropped an individual off at her residence. She was making her way to another place when the suspect walked up to her and opened fire.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said Dwumfour is the state’s first incumbent official in recent memory to be fatally shot. Yolanda Ciccone, who is the Middlesex County Prosecutor, also told the news outlet that it does not seem Dwumfour’s killing stemmed from her holding a political position. The deceased councilwoman was elected in 2021.
“I am stunned by the news of Sayreville Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour’s murder last evening in an act of gun violence,” said Murphy. “Her career of public service was just beginning, and by all accounts she had already built a reputation as a committed member of the Borough Council who took her responsibility with the utmost diligence and seriousness.”
Authorities are yet to determine the motive behind the fatal incident. Police did not also disclose if a person of interest in the shooting has been identified or if they have arrested anyone. In a Facebook post, the deceased councilwoman’s neighbor said she was “killed 300 feet from my home … she was shot while returning back home. She was a woman full of life.”
Outside politics, Dwumfour worked as a business analyst and part-time emergency medical technician, ABC News reported. She was also a leader at her local church. New Jersey Republican State Committee Chair Bob Hugin described the fatal incident as “senseless violence.”
“We will remember Eunice for her steadfast dedication to the community, as well as her deep and abiding Christian faith,” Hugin said. “We have the utmost confidence that law enforcement will bring the perpetrators of this heartbreaking tragedy to justice. God Bless Councilwoman Dwumfour and her family.”
Dwumfour, 30, leaves behind a husband and a 12-year-old daughter. Authorities have since launched an investigation into her murder.
