2-Year-Old Boy Dies After Falling From 20th-Floor Window in Newark High-Rise as Investigation Continues

A two-year-old boy died Saturday morning after falling from the 20th floor of a high-rise apartment building in Newark, New Jersey, according to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office.

The fatal fall occurred around 7 a.m. at 455 Elizabeth Avenue, a residential building known as Elizabeth Towers. Police officers responded to reports of a child falling from a high-rise window, and the toddler was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders.Window Reportedly Lacked Safety Guards.

According to NJ.com, investigators are conducting an “active, ongoing” probe to determine how the child fell. Tenants told NBC New York that some units lack proper window guards, despite requests.

Resident Paul Ankrah said he insisted management install window guards before he moved in with his child. NBC New York also reported observing multiple windows in disrepair throughout the building—some covered with garbage bags, cardboard, or plywood, while others had visible holes.

Another tenant, who wished to remain anonymous, described long-standing maintenance concerns, saying the building lacks adequate staffing and needs significant repairs.

Elizabeth Towers, built in 1961, has an unclear history regarding compliance with city safety standards, previous violations, or enforcement actions.

Law enforcement sources initially described the incident as a “tragic accident.” Authorities have not yet disclosed the identity of the child or detailed the circumstances leading to the fall, including who was present at the time.

The investigation remains in progress.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Tips Line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC (1-877-847-7432). All calls are confidential.