Authorities investigating self-inflicted gunshot incident outside Newton Police Department that left man hospitalized

NEWTON, NJ (Sussex County) – The Newton Police Department and the Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office are investigating a self-inflicted gunshot incident that occurred Friday afternoon outside the Newton Police Department

On July 29, at around 1:22 p.m., a Newton police officer was exiting the rear of the Newton Police Department, located at 39 Trinity Street, and discovered an unconscious man lying on the ground, police said.

It initially appeared that the 71-year-old Newton man had fallen and was suffering from a head injury, police siad.

Officers immediately rendered aid and discovered that the victim was suffering from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. A 9mm handgun was located underneath him, police said.

The man was then transported to Morristown Medical Center, police said.

“No foul play is suspected and there is no threat to the public,” police said.