HOBOKEN, NJ —
June 18, 2026 |
By DailyHudson Staff
Albert Morales convicted in April 2024 shooting death of Damon Murray.
A North Bergen man was found guilty Wednesday on all charges for the April 2024 murder of Damon Murray, a 21-year-old former Rutgers football player and Hoboken firefighter candidate, authorities said.
The verdict brings a measure of closure to a case that shook Hoboken’s close-knit community, where Murray was remembered as a standout athlete and aspiring first responder whose life was cut short by gun violence.
Albert Morales, 35, was convicted of murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and unlawful possession of a weapon, according to Hudson County Prosecutor Wayne Mello.
The shooting occurred shortly after 11:30 p.m. on April 28, 2024, near 320 Marshall Drive in Hoboken. Murray was taken by private vehicle to Jersey City Medical Center with a gunshot wound to the abdomen and died just after midnight.
Morales was arrested the following day in Massachusetts. The trial was held before Hudson County Superior Court Judge Mitzy Galis-Menendez, with Assistant Prosecutor Ed Bilinkas representing the state.
“While this verdict will not erase the pain felt by Damon’s family, friends, and loved ones, I hope it provides some measure of justice,” said Hoboken Mayor Emily Jabbour in a statement.
Impact: Murray had recently passed the firefighters civil service exam and was working toward becoming a member of the Hoboken Fire Department. The city renamed a gymnasium after him in August 2024.
What Happens Next: Morales’ sentencing is tentatively scheduled for Friday, September 4th.
Mayor Jabbour said the community must continue working together to prevent such tragedies in memory of Murray.
Source: Hudson County View
