PITTSTOWN, NJ — A devastating and deeply disturbing incident has rocked communities across New Jersey, as authorities have confirmed that Ricardo Santos, a former New Jersey State Trooper once assigned to Governor Phil Murphy’s executive protection detail, is responsible for the shocking deaths of two individuals in a double murder-suicide.
The victims—33-year-old veterinarian Lauren Semanchik of Pittstown and 29-year-old volunteer firefighter Tyler Webb of Forked River—were found shot to death inside Semanchik’s home in the Pittstown section of Franklin Township, Hunterdon County. The killings occurred on Saturday, August 2, 2025, and have since sparked outrage, sorrow, and a renewed focus on domestic violence and law enforcement accountability.
A Tragic Chain of Events
The horror began shortly after 12:20 p.m., when local police responded to a 911 call reporting an unconscious woman with visible trauma at a residence on Upper Kingtown Road. Upon arrival, officers discovered the lifeless bodies of both Semanchik and Webb inside the home. Both victims had sustained fatal gunshot wounds.
The home belonged to Lauren Semanchik, a widely respected and compassionate veterinarian known for her dedication to animal welfare and her generous, nurturing spirit. Tyler Webb, a close friend and visitor at the time, was also highly regarded in his own community for his volunteer service with the Pinewald Pioneer Fire Company, who remembered him fondly in a public tribute.
Authorities launched an immediate manhunt for the suspect, and by that same afternoon, their search came to an end in Johnson Park in Piscataway, more than 30 miles from the scene of the crime. Inside a parked vehicle, police discovered the body of Ricardo Santos, dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Suspect Had Law Enforcement Background
Santos was no ordinary suspect—he had once served in a high-profile role as a supervisor in the executive protection unit for Governor Phil Murphy. More recently, he had been reassigned to the State Police’s dignitary protection unit, where he provided security for other high-ranking officials.
News of his involvement has stunned both law enforcement agencies and political circles across the state. It has also intensified scrutiny of how such a trusted figure—trained, armed, and once tasked with protecting others—could descend into such violence.
A Troubled Relationship
According to family members of Lauren Semanchik, she and Santos had briefly dated earlier this year, but the relationship ended after a few months. Lauren’s sister, Deanna Semanchik, described Santos’s behavior after the breakup as “obsessive” and “threatening,” saying he repeatedly harassed Lauren and refused to accept the relationship’s end.
“He would not leave her alone,” Deanna said. “She was the most empathetic person I have ever met. She just had such a big heart.”
Despite Lauren’s attempts to move forward, including maintaining protective boundaries and leaning on her support system, it appears Santos’s fixation only deepened—culminating in the violent act that took her life and that of Tyler Webb.
Official Response and Community Grief
In the wake of the killings, the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office released a statement extending condolences to the victims’ families and acknowledging the “immeasurable loss and pain” inflicted by the tragedy.
A spokesperson for Governor Murphy said the governor and his staff were “shocked and deeply saddened,” and that they had no prior indication of any personal issues involving Santos that would have raised alarms during his tenure in state service.
The Pinewald Pioneer Fire Company, where Tyler Webb served with honor, remembered him as a selfless, dependable young man who never hesitated to help others.
“Tyler was one of the good ones,” their statement read. “He gave of himself freely and without complaint. We are heartbroken.”
Meanwhile, social media posts from residents in the Pittstown neighborhood described a scene of disbelief and sorrow. Flowers and candles have been placed near Semanchik’s home in quiet tribute.
A Broader Conversation: Law Enforcement, Domestic Violence, and Access to Weapons
This tragedy has ignited a broader conversation about domestic violence, law enforcement oversight, and the risks posed when individuals in positions of power misuse their access to weapons and authority. Advocates and lawmakers are calling for stronger systems to monitor mental health among officers, stricter penalties for stalking and harassment, and enhanced support for those trying to exit unsafe relationships.
“We cannot ignore the warning signs anymore,” said one local advocate. “Lauren tried to live her life. She did not deserve this. We need better tools to protect women from men who won’t take no for an answer—especially when those men are armed and trained.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office and the New Jersey State Police continue to investigate the timeline and details surrounding the incident. Autopsies have been scheduled for all three individuals, and forensic examinations are underway. While investigators believe the events are no longer an ongoing threat to the public, the emotional impact will reverberate for years to come.
Remembering Lauren and Tyler
As the community mourns, friends and family are left to remember two lives cut short far too soon.
- Lauren Semanchik was known not only for her intelligence and skill as a veterinarian, but also for her warmth and devotion to others—both human and animal.
- Tyler Webb was a beacon of service and kindness, dedicating his time to the fire service and bringing light to everyone he knew.
Both were victims of senseless violence. Both deserved more time.
Their memories will live on in those who knew them—and in the hope that from this tragedy, greater awareness, safety, and accountability can emerge.
If you or someone you know is experiencing stalking or domestic violence, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
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