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How does a bright young star, full of promise and packed with talent, have his light snuffed out just as he’s stepping onto the big stage? That’s the gut-wrenching question echoing through Newark and beyond after the tragic death of 16-year-old Ziyad Cook, a standout football player and scholar from Irvington High School. Just before 6 p.m. on June 26, Ziyad was one of two juveniles caught in a deadly shooting in Newark’s West Ward — a moment that turned a community’s hopes and dreams into a collective heartbreak. Ziyad was more than just an athlete; he embodied leadership, kindness, and the fierce determination every coach dreams of. From heartfelt tributes to prayers pouring in, his loss is a stark reminder of how fragile life can be — especially when real talent is taken too soon. It makes you wonder: in a world desperate for heroes, how do we protect those shining the brightest? LEARN MORE.

Prayers are pouring in after a beloved high school football star was killed at 16 earlier this month.

A standout high school football star was killed in a shooting in Newark, New Jersey earlier this week. The 16-year-old high school football star was one of two juveniles reportedly killed in the shooting. The shooting took place in Newark’s West Ward shortly before 6 p.m. E.T. on June 26.

Ziyad Cook, a standout student-athlete at Irvington High School, was one of two people shot. He tragically passed away at the young age of 16. Cook was a standout player for Irvington’s High School football team.

Prayers are now pouring in for his friends and family members.

“Ziyad was not just a remarkable athlete; he was an inspiring young man who embodied the spirit of the Irvington High School Blue Knights,” Irvington Schools Superintendent Dr. Vauss wrote.

“His talent and determination made him a leader among his peers, and he was admired not only for his athletic prowess but also for his kindness and compassion.”

Everyone is heartbroken.

“Never thought in my life I would be saying RIP to you months after seeing you at the football banquet. Very smart, very young, and one of the hardest workers in my DL group. I’m truly heartbroken and sorry that this happened to you. RIP Ziyad Cook. You’ll be truly missed,” one fan wrote.

“Horrible,” one fan added.

Never thought in my life I would be saying RIP to you months after seeing you at the football banquet. Very smart, very young, and one of the hardest workers in my DL group.

I’m truly heartbroken and sorry that this happened to you.

RIP Ziyad Cook. You’ll be truly missed 🤲🏾 pic.twitter.com/MQADPwpHlc

— Next Level Culture (@nextlvlculture) June 28, 2025

The report had more on his tragic passing:

According to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, Ziyad’s tragic death occurred just before 6 p.m. in Newark’s West Ward, where two juveniles were shot near 227 Brookdale Avenue, according to Essex County authorities.

Both victims were transported to University Hospital. Ziyad was pronounced dead later that evening at 9:19 p.m., while the second teenager remains hospitalized in critical condition.

Our thoughts are with his friends and family members following this tragic time.

May he rest in peace.