N.J. Judge OKs Lawsuit Arising From Schoolyard Killings in 2007

A judge has denied an attempt by Newark’s school district to throw out a lawsuit stemming from the murders of three college-bound students in a schoolyard in 2007.

Wednesday’s ruling means the suit against the district can move forward.

The three friends were slain execution-style in August 2007. A fourth victim was slashed and shot but survived and was in court for Wednesday’s decision.

Six suspects were arrested; three have been convicted, two pleaded guilty and one awaits trial.

The victims’ families allege the school district created a dangerous condition by leaving the schoolyard gates open when it knew security cameras and sensor lights weren’t working.

The killings brought national attention to violent crime in New Jersey’s largest city and helped spur a host of anti-crime measures.