On Sunday, April 28th, the Hoboken Police received reports of a shooting incident on Marshall Drive in Hoboken. The Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office released a statement on X, previously referred to as Twitter, confirming that the gunshot resulted in death. They later identified the victim as Damon Murray, a 21-year-old resident of Hoboken. Various community individuals and local organizations have shown their admiration and respect for Damon, a recent graduate of Hoboken High School in 2020.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of Damon Murray, a well-respected, standout athlete who gave back to Hoboken youth and our community at large. My deepest condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time. May his memory continue to live on through all who knew him.”
The statement released by the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office on Monday, April 29th reads: “Shortly after 11:30 p.m., the Hoboken Police Department received a report of shots fired in the area of 320 Marshall Drive. Responding officers located a crime scene outside the building. A 21-year-old male, later identified as Damon Murray, of Hoboken, was transported by a private auto to Jersey City Medical Center with an apparent gunshot wound to the abdomen. He was pronounced dead just after midnight on Monday, April 29, 2024. The Cause and Manner of Death are pending the findings of the Regional Medical Examiner’s Office.
The Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Unit and the Hoboken Police Department are actively investigating this matter. No arrests have been made at this time. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Office of the Hudson County Prosecutor at 201-915-1345 or to leave an anonymous tip at: http://www.hudsoncountyprosecutorsofficenj.org/homicide-tip/. All information will be kept confidential.”
Dr. Christine Johnson, the Superintendent of Hoboken Schools, shared the following message:
“Dear Hoboken School Community, It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of Damon Murray, a graduate of Hoboken High School Class of 2020. Late last night, Damon was the victim of a fatal shooting on Marshall Drive in Hoboken.Damon was a standout student leader, gifted basketball and football player, and friend during his time in the Hoboken Public Schools. His contributions to Hoboken High School, both academically and athletically, will always be remembered and cherished. High School Principal Robin Piccapietra said, “Damon was a respectful young man who worked hard day in and day out as a high school student. He always had a smile on his face.
Damon was a preferred walk-on at Rutgers University; committing to Greg Schiano’s football program. After leaving Rutgers University to return home to Hoboken to help his family, Damon enthusiastically took on a role as a paraprofessional for the district. His kindness and empathy served our Department of Special Services so well. Our students looked up to him with admiration and respect.
Keeon Walker, Damon’s football coach at Hoboken High School, said, “Damon was a wonderful athlete and an even better student; the true definition of what you want a student athlete to be. He was scheduled to meet with the fire department this week for an interview. I was looking forward to the possibility of being a mentor to him as he started his journey to become a fire fighter. I am truly heartbroken by this tragic event. My prayers go out to him family and friends.
Our district’s Guidance Counselors, Fortitude Clinicians, and Child Study Team Members are available as part of our Crisis Intervention Plan for any students and staff in need of support. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to the Murray family and loved ones during this difficult time. Damon’s legacy will forever remain a source of inspiration for all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
