Essex County prosecutors are optimistic over the discovery of the murder weapon used in the slaying of three college students in a Newark schoolyard last August.

The firearm is believed to be the weapon used to kill Terrance Aeriel, 18, Iofemi Hightower, 20, and Deshawn Harvey, 20. Aeriel's sister, Natasha, survived the shooting and has helped police's investigation. Six people, including two juveniles, have been arrested in connection with the shootings.

The gun was seized in a sweep orchestrated by authorities on Long Island. It was allegedly found at the home of Alvaro DelGado, a reputedly high-ranking member of MS-13.

Essex County Prosecutor Paula Dow calls the weapon a "key piece of evidence."

DelGado is not believed to have been involved in the Newark killings. Police believe the gun got to Long Island after being passed around by MS-13 members.

Several suspects in the Newark murders are believed to be affiliated with MS-13.

DelGado allegedly told police the firearm has been used in other crimes and "has 10 bodies on it." Authorities outside New York believe the gun may have been used in murders in their areas.

N.Y. gun seizure linked to Newark schoolyard slayings