2 shot at N.J. hip-hop concert

HOLMDEL, N.J. — Two people were shot Monday night near the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel.

State Police Sgt. Gregory Williams said the shooting was reported at about 11:15 p.m. ET and happened outside the arena, but couldn't say exactly where the violence erupted.

The two injured people were taken to a hospital by helicopter, Williams said. The Breaking News Network reported two helicopters going to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune.

It was reported that one victim of the shooting died. Williams could not confirm the report. A 2:14 a.m. post on Twitter by the New Jersey State Police said both victims were in critical condition.

The tweet said police were still searching for a suspect in the woods near the arena. A reporter at the scene saw state police cars roaming the area. Dogs could be heard barking. Investigators milled about near an area marked with police tape near the corner of Memorial Lane and Perimeter Road. One investigator took photos of something on the ground.

The J. Cole: Forest Hills Drive Tour was being held Monday night at the center, featuring hip-hop artists J. Cole, YG, Big Sean, and Jeremih. The show was sold out, the center reported on its Twitter feed.

The amphitheater, designed by modernist architect Edward Durell Stone, seats 17,500. Grass seating can accommodate an additional10,500 patrons.

Contributing: Hartriono B. Sastrowardoyo, Asbury Park (N.J.) Press