KEARNY –
According to published reports, three suspects in the Jan. 17, 2013, murder of 16-year-old Alishia Colon in Kearny, have pleaded guilty to various charges, and the fourth, the alleged gunman, will stand trial in April for felony murder. Colon was shot dead in her bedroom in her Belgrove Drive home as a result of what authorities said was an ongoing dispute between her family and members of the Latin Kings street gang. The girl herself reportedly had no involvement in that dispute.
The suspected triggerman was identified as Cruz Martinez, 43, of Hazleton, Pa. He faces life in prison on murder, burglary and weapons charges.
Those who reportedly have already entered guilty pleas in connection with the crime were identified as getaway driver Kyeeth L. Smith, 23, of Willingboro, weapons possession and hindering apprehension; Eric L. Shelton, 21, of Orange, burglary and conspiracy; and Lamar D. Farrar, 24, of East Orange, weapons possession and conspiracy.
The Observer has attempted to independently confirm the information with the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, but as of press time this had not been possible.
– Karen Zautyk
