Full Breakdown
Fatal Bow-and-Arrow Attack in Kearny, New Jersey: A Community in Shock
12/23/2025, 4:16:41 AM
Incident Overview
On December 21, 2025, a fatal incident unfolded in Kearny, New Jersey, when 45-year-old Pablo Criollo was killed by an arrow shot by 44-year-old Oscar Feijoo. The attack occurred around 6:45 p.m. near the intersection of Kearny and Johnston Avenues, where Criollo was found with an arrow in his back outside a hair salon. He was transported to University Hospital in Newark but succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.
Standoff and Arrest
Following the attack, Feijoo barricaded himself inside his home on Kearny Avenue, leading to a tense standoff with the Hudson County SWAT team. Negotiations began, but around 5 a.m. on December 22, a fire broke out in the house, prompting evacuations of nearby residents. Firefighters battled the blaze while SWAT teams continued to attempt to negotiate with Feijoo. After more than 12 hours, he surrendered around 1 p.m., exiting the home armed with knives.
Charges Filed
Feijoo has been charged with murder, aggravated arson, and unlawful possession of a weapon. The Hudson County Prosecutor's Office indicated that additional charges may follow as the investigation continues. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and authorities have not disclosed any prior connection between the victim and the suspect.
Community Impact
The incident has left the Kearny community in shock, particularly given its unusual nature. Residents reported feeling anxious and fearful during the standoff, with many evacuated to a nearby church for safety. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with police and fire crews responding to the emergency. Local residents expressed disbelief over the use of a bow and arrow in such a violent act, with one neighbor stating, "It’s a crazy world. A bow and arrow? Who knows how people think."
Official Statements & Responses
Wayne Mello, the acting Hudson County Prosecutor, confirmed the charges against Feijoo and stated, "The investigation is ongoing, and we are working to uncover the circumstances that led to this tragic event." Meanwhile, Criollo's family mourns his loss, with his wife describing him as a "good man" and expressing devastation over the impact on their children.
Eyewitness Accounts
Witnesses recounted the harrowing events, with one resident noting, "I heard the guy yelling out, ‘I can’t come out!’ or ‘I can’t do that!’" Another neighbor, Ana Cristina Pacheco, described the moment the fire erupted, stating, "Around 5 o’clock in the morning when it started, the fire, the SWAT, they tell me everybody out."
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While many sources confirm the basic facts of the incident, discrepancies exist regarding the timeline of events and the exact nature of the suspect's actions during the standoff. Some reports mention multiple fires being set, while others focus solely on the main blaze that engulfed the home.
What's Next
As the investigation continues, the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office is expected to provide further updates on the case, including any additional charges against Feijoo and insights into the motive behind the attack. The community remains on edge as they seek answers and process the aftermath of this tragic event.
