State employee in critical condition, Murphy says it was random act of gun violence

Vernetta L. McCray, a longtime employee of the state Department of Children and Families, was shot in front of her home in Trenton on Friday evening, Gov. Phil Murphy said tonight.

Murphy said the shooting was a random act of gun violence and that McCray is in critical condition.

“Vernetta McCray has worked for the Department of Children and Families for over a decade, gaining the respect of her colleagues and serving countless children and families in Mercer County,” Murphy said. “This tragedy is yet another reminder of the toll that senseless gun violence takes on our communities. Our prayers are with Vernetta, her family, and her loved ones at this difficult time.”