Long Branch, NJ shooting reports: Witnesses say shots fired in Pier Village

Witnesses are reporting possible shooting incident in Long Branch, New Jersey. Gunshots were allegedly fired at McLoone's Pier House restaurant in Pier Village.

Witnesses are reporting a possible shooting incident in Long Branch, New Jersey, on Thursday night. According to unconfirmed reports circulating on social media, gunshots were allegedly fired at McLoone's Pier House restaurant, located in the popular Pier Village area.

Witnesses are reporting possible shooting incident in Long Branch, New Jersey.(UnSplash)

According to Jersey Coast Emergency News, a Facebook page that covers local incidents, there may have been an active shooter in the area. 

The page posted: “Active shooter at Pier Village in Long Branch. At least 1 dead. Numerous shots fired. We will update as we get additional information. The shooting appeared to have started near McLoone’s.”

In a separate post accompanying video footage showing multiple police vehicles on the scene, the page added, “Terrible scene in Long branch, where at least one person is dead after a shooting broke out at pier Village. Witnesses tell me the shooting started at McLoon’s as numerous shots popped off sending people running for their lives.”

Authorities have not yet confirmed the incident, and no official details about injuries or suspects have been released.

Eyewitness Accounts

Social media users described a chaotic scene.

One witness wrote on Facebook, “Long Branch NJ. Shots fired on the beach at MCloones restaurant as Tim McCloones band played. Reports of 1 dead.”

Another posted, “Anyone got info on who was shot and killed at pier village in long branch nj just now???”

A third person wrote, “Too close to home for me! And my husband thinks we are safe. I don’t think that where ever you live, you are safe!”

Another witness reported, “Started with altercation between some kids on the beach next to McLoones. 1 dead.”

One witness recalled, “Iwas walking by when the shots happened. I heard at least 2 shots fired but could have been 3. After the 2nd shot I ran. It occurred on the beach by McLoones beach entrance.”