Bouncer Shot and Killed At Bar

The Essex County Prosecutor's Office identified the man shot to death Monday behind on Main Street as Jacques Nelson, 32, of Orange. 

Nelson was employed as a bouncer and was breaking up a fight between patrons in the municipal parking lot when he was fatally shot at approximately 2 a.m., authorities said.

No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing. 

Someone from Misty's Bar, located at 277 Main St., was not immediately available for comment.  

Early Monday, West Orange police and the prosecutor's office Crime Scene Unit had the parking lot cordoned off with police tape. The bar is directly behind the Watchung Heights Police Substation on Washington Street and adjacent to businesses. 

Jack Becerra, who works at Community Business Services, whose rear door faces Misty's parking lot, said he has never had any problems with the area in the past. 

"I feel very secure around here," said Becerra. "But I am very surprised, especially because it happened right next to a police substation. ... It is certainly an eye opener." 

Mayor Robert Parisi issued a press release about the shooting Monday evening. 

“Last night’s shooting was a tragic event that has shocked the Township," wrote Parisi in a press release, "and is a terrible reminder of the gun violence that happens every single day in our country. 

... On behalf of the Township, I would like to express our sympathies to the victim’s family. I would also like to thank our residents and businesses for their patience and cooperation as this investigation continues.”

Few additional details were released by the police, though the prosecutor's office asked anyone with information about the crime to contact its Tips Line at: 1-877-847-7432.