Slain Newark Det. Joseph Azcona posthumously promoted to sergeant during funeral
NEWARK, New Jersey (WABC) -- Dignitaries from across the state joined family, loved ones and fellow officers for the funeral for Newark Detective Joseph Azcona, who was fatally shot in the line of duty one week ago.
Azcona was posthumously promoted to sergeant during the funeral on Friday morning.
Everyone stood at attention as the flag-draped coffin was lifted from the hearse and carried by an honor guard of police pallbearers before it was slowly led into the Basilica of the Sacred Heart.
It was a show of reverence and support for the detective who went to work a week ago but never returned home.
A 14-year-old suspect has been charged with his murder.
"The way we honor his legacy is to make our streets a lot safer, and to honor the police officers who have the most dangerous job," said Senator Cory Booker, (D) New Jersey.
His young life was cut down in an instant when the teen with an assault weapon allegedly shot Azcona before he could get out of his police cruiser.
The officer's family has been left stunned by this act of murder. But, his family now includes every member of the police force who understands that they have an important but dangerous job.
"In these tough times, our law enforcement community comes out together to show their admiration and respect for the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice," said Peter Andeyev, State President, NJ State Patrolmen's Benevolent. "And as I say that you can hear 'Amazing Grace' playing in the background, that always gets me. And if you have a heartbeat whenever you hear that at a police funeral or a fire funeral, it always gets you to the core."
Governor Murphy has ordered that flags fly at half-staff in Azcona's honor on Friday.
It's been more than 20 years since a Newark police officer was killed in the line of duty.
Azcona was promoted to detective two years ago and assigned to the intelligence unit.
Officials with the Essex County Prosecutor's Office said the 14-year-old was charged with numerous crimes including murder, attempted murder and possession of illegal weapons.
In the state of New Jersey, a 14-year-old cannot be tried as an adult under any circumstance.
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