NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ—Eduardo H. Escobar-Landaverde has worked out a plea deal with the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office after admitting to the killing a rival gang member in the Hub City.

The incident occurred on January 9, 2012, in the vicinity of Somerset and Louis Streets in New Brunswick.  Escobar-Landaverde fatally shot Oswaldo Lozada, 21, prosecutors say.

Escobar-Landaverde, a member of the 18th Street gang reportedly said that he carried a weapon for the purpose of firing upon rival gang members.

Lozada, who was shot by Escobar-Landaverde, was a member of street gang known as MS-13, according to prosecutors.

Police responded to several 911 calls after shots were fired.  As city police arrived, they found Lozada, who was transported to nearby Robert Wood Johnson Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Recently, the defendant plead guilty to reckless manslaughter and possession of a firearm for unlawful purpose, through an agreement was reached with Middlesex County Assistant Prosecutors Manuel Samiero and Vincent Vitale.

As a result, Escobar-Landaverde will be sentenced on July 11, 2014 for a prison term of six years, 85% of which must be completed before being eligible for parole.

Senior Reporter at New Brunswick Today | 732-474-7924 | jkaado@nb.today

Jad is a local writer, organizer, and life-long resident of New Brunswick. He is a graduate of both Rutgers University and The University of Toronto.

Jad is a local writer, organizer, and life-long resident of New Brunswick. He is a graduate of both Rutgers University and The University of Toronto.