A New Jersey man charged with assault after firing a gun at police

An Irvington man has been charged with aggravated assault after shooting at police officers Saturday afternoon, officials said.

Kelvin Sanders, 48, was arrested and charged with criminal possession of a weapon and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, said Tracy Bowers, public safety director for the Irvington Police Department.

Bowers said officers encountered Sanders, who had a gun, near 673 Chancellor Avenue. Bowers said he fired at officers and fled the scene as officers chased him.

Bowers said he was taken into custody “after an extensive search” with assistance from Irvington, Nev., police officers, state police and the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office.

Officials said Sanders will be taken to the Essex County Detention Center pending arrangements.

“All of the officers and participating agencies did an excellent job in helping to apprehend this suspect, and I applaud them for their bravery, courage and the effort they put into keeping our community safe,” Bowers said.