Newark man arrested for murdering his mother

Al Andre Cowart

NEWARK, NJ — Acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens, II, and Newark Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose announced Nov. 30 that the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force, which includes detectives from the Newark Police Department, is investigating the death of Janet Cowart, 64, of Newark.

At approximately 5:21 p.m. on Nov. 29, she sustained fatal injuries at her home in Newark and was pronounced dead at the scene at 5:45 p.m. The cause of death is pending autopsy.

Her son, Al Andre Cowart, 38, also of Newark has been charged with murder, unlawful possession of a handgun, possession of weapon for an unlawful purpose, unlawful possession of a knife, and possession of a knife for an unlawful purpose.

The defendant is currently being held at the Essex County Correctional Facility in Newark.

These are accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they enter a guilty plea or are found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The investigation is active and ongoing. Additional information will be released as it becomes available. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force tips line at 1-877-847-7432.