Antuane Gregory
Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II announced today that an Essex County Jury has convicted Antuane Gregory, 46, of Newark, of first-degree murder, two counts of first-degree attempted murder, three counts of second-degree aggravated assault, and weapons offenses in connection with a shooting that killed one person and wounded four others.
Assistant Prosecutor Meredith Mona and Assistant Prosecutor Monica Calderon tried the case before the Honorable Harold W. Fullilove, Jr. J.S.C. The jury returned its verdict on Friday, October 10, 2025, following a six-day trial.
The prosecution proved that on April 15, 2023, Gregory started a verbal argument on the street in the area of 408 Leslie Street in Newark. During the dispute, Gregory pulled out a handgun and opened fire on a group of five people standing on the sidewalk.
Corey Beasley, 43, of Newark, was struck four times–once in the back, once in his right leg, and twice in the left leg. Three additional victims sustained multiple gunshot wounds but survived their injuries. A fifth victim was fired upon but not struck by gunfire.
“This was a senseless act of violence that cost Corey Beasley his life and could have been completely avoided but for the defendant’s actions that evening on a crowded city street”, said Assistant Prosecutor Meredith Mona.
Assistant Prosecutor Monica Calderon added, “The jury’s verdict makes clear that this was not self-defense but an unjustified act of violence. The defendant chose to shoot multiple times into a crowd, taking a life and injuring others, and now must face the consequences of that choice.”
Gregory is scheduled for sentencing on November 21, 2025. He faces a minimum of 30 years to life in prison. He must serve 85% of his sentence before being eligible for parole. Gregory is currently serving a five-year federal sentence for escape from custody, imposed in July 2024.
The assistant prosecutors commend investigators from the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, the US Marshalls, and the Newark Police Division for their dedication and tireless efforts in this case.
The public is encouraged to report any information related to criminal activity by contacting the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Tips Line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432. All calls will remain confidential.
