Community members in Newark came together this week to lay to rest the beloved street performer known as “Uggie” at New Hope Baptist Church.
Reports indicate that 44-year-old “Uggie” (whose real name is Eric Bowens) was shot on Bergen Street last week. He was taken to University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Police are still looking for his killer as no arrests have been made. Authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward. A $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the shooting.
Eric “Uggie” Bowens Funeral Service
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Born with a developmental disability, Bowens was best known for dancing and singing at community events. Videos of him were widely shared on social media, with several on YouTube. News of his death hit social media and generated an outpouring of condolences.
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka attended the funeral, according to reports. He spoke about the violence epidemic plaguing the city and advised those who know his killer to come forward and turn the person in.
“There was a time in our community, when you couldn’t do these kinds of things. There was a time that you couldn’t hide in our community, because the community would be after you,” Baraka said. “So if you want justice for Uggie, go out and you bring him in. I’m not telling you to do something illegal, something to get you in jail. But what I’m telling you is, when you get your hands on him, you bring him to the precinct, alive.”
Hundreds of people attended the funeral service. Pastor Ron Burgess gave the eulogy and there were tributes read by family members as well as poetry readings.
Stars Performing Arts Dance School in Hillside performed a modern dance routine at the service. Bowens’ 8-year-old cousin was one of the performers.
Bowens’ casket was taken via horse-drawn carriage throughout the neighborhood where he lived.
Since his murder, friends and neighbors have been sharing photos, videos and stories about Bowens. He was often seen at various community events dancing and participating in dance battles with others.