Statement of Gov Richard J Hughes at Newark Armory, Sunday Morning, July 16, 1967, at 5 O’Clock

Statement issued by Governor Hughes on the morning of Sunday, July 16 from the Newark Armory. In the statement, Hughes offers executive clemency for anyone arrested during the “riots” who provides information leading to the arrest and conviction of “snipers.” While frequently reported by police and National Guard to justify “indiscriminate shooting” at buildings, vehicles, and individuals, the presence of snipers has been widely discredited by community members, reporters, and historians. No one took Hughes up on his offer. — Credit: New Jersey State Archives