Ocean County Firefighter, Woman Killed by Her Ex, a State Trooper

A firefighter from Forked River and the woman he was dating were shot to death on Saturday by a New Jersey state trooper who had previously had a relationship with the woman.

Tyler Webb, 29, and Lauren Semanchik, 33, were found dead in Semanchik's home in Franklin Township, according to the Hunterdon County Prosecutor's Office.

Ocean County Firefighter Remembered

Tyler Webb of Forked River has held several positions with the Pinewald Pioneer Fire Company in Bayville. The fire company remembered him on Sunday on Facebook.

It is with a heavy heart and deepest regret that the Pinewald Pioneer Fire Company announces the untimely passing of Firefighter Tyler Webb.

Tyler served our department with dedication and honor. He held the positions of Chief Engineer, Past Lieutenant, and Past Trustee during his time with the company. His contributions to our company and community will never be forgotten.

Tyler's sister, Angela Webb, also posted on Facebook about her brother on Sunday.

It is with the heaviest heart that I have to share the passing of my “baby” brother, the man you could always call for a laugh & a helping hand. He was an incredible friend to so many, an amazing uncle, and will be missed terribly. I’m still in shock as I write this. Rest in Peace, Tyler Webb

 

State Trooper Had Been Harassing Woman

A family member of Semanchik's told The New York Times that the suspect had been harassing Semanchik.

Dr. Lauren Semanchik was a veterinarian at the Long Valley Animal Hospital in Morris County. She lived close by in Hunterdon County.

The New York Times reports that the suspect in the killings is Ricardo Santos, a  New Jersey State Police officer and the ex-boyfriend of Lauren Semanchik.

The New York Times says Santos had served for a time in the State Police executive protection unit, guarding Gov. Phil Murphy.

More recently, he has been guarding other important people involved in state politics.

Santos' body was found in his vehicle in John Park in Piscataway on Saturday. It appears that he killed himself.

Deanna Semanchik, Lauren's sister, told The New York Times that her sister and Santos had only dated for a few months earlier this year, but he refused to leave her alone.