Plainfield man sitting on porch killed by robber in city’s 5th homicide this year

PLAINFIELD — A 60-year-old resident on Thursday became this Union County city's fifth homicide victim of the year.

Frank Drayton was found bleeding from gunshot wounds 700 block of West Fourth Street just before midnight, the Union County Prosecutor's Office said Friday. He was pronounced dead on the scene.

Drayton had been on his porch enjoying the evening air when he was approached by a gunman who demanded money, officials said. The robber shot Drayton after "an exchange of words" and then fled on foot, investigators said.

Police have not made an arrest or said whether they have any suspects.

Drayton's slaying marks the fifth killing in this city in 2016. Plainfield counted three homicides last year and four in 2014.

Officials have not arrested any suspects in any of this city's homicide cases this year.

Union County Crime Stoppers is offering a $10,000 reward for information that could result in an arrest and conviction in the Drayton case. The organization accepts anonymous callers and tips at 908-654-8477 or via text message by sending the word UCTIP plus a message to 274637.

Anyone with information can also call Union County Homicide Task Force Sgt. Jose Vendas at 908-358-3048.

Sergio Bichao is deputy digital editor at New Jersey 101.5. Send him news tips: Call 609-438-1015 or email sergio.bichao@townsquaremedia.com.