FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, NJ — A deeply disturbing and tragic sequence of events unfolded in New Jersey over the weekend, leaving three lives lost and communities across the state grieving. Authorities confirmed that Ricardo Santos, a New Jersey State Police sergeant, fatally shot his ex-girlfriend, 33-year-old Lauren Semanchik, and her new partner, 29-year-old Tyler Webb, before taking his own life.
The incident occurred on Friday evening, August 1, 2025, when Santos allegedly stalked the couple to a residence in Franklin Township, where Semanchik had been staying with a veterinarian friend. The attack, described by police as targeted and premeditated, turned deadly in a matter of moments.
According to investigators, Semanchik was shot in the back as she tried to flee the scene—an action that underscores the terror of her final moments. Tyler Webb, who was present with her at the time, was also fatally shot during the confrontation.
The following day, on Saturday, law enforcement located Santos’s body inside a Mercedes SUV approximately 50 minutes away from the crime scene. He had apparently died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A handgun was recovered from the vehicle. Authorities are treating the case as a murder-suicide stemming from domestic violence and jealousy.
This chilling event has sent shockwaves across New Jersey, not only because of its brutality but also because of Santos’s background. As a sergeant with the New Jersey State Police, Santos once served in an elite security detail, reportedly including assignments at Governor Phil Murphy’s Office.
In the aftermath, Governor Murphy’s Office issued a public statement, saying:
“We are shocked and devastated by this horrific tragedy. Our hearts are with the families and loved ones of the victims. This unimaginable act of violence has no place in our communities, and we will ensure that all necessary support is provided to those affected.”
Lauren Semanchik was a highly respected veterinary technician, known for her compassionate work at the Long Valley Animal Hospital, where she brought comfort and healing to countless animals and their families. In her memory, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched by her colleagues to support funeral costs and fund charitable donations in her name. The fundraiser has already begun to receive a flood of support, accompanied by messages of heartbreak and remembrance.
Tyler Webb, just 29 years old, was a dedicated firefighter with the Pinewald Pioneer Volunteer Fire Company, where he was admired for his courage, community spirit, and unwavering dedication to public service. The fire company posted a solemn tribute on social media, expressing deep sorrow at the loss of “a true brother, friend, and hero.”
The investigation is ongoing, but authorities have confirmed that Santos had no active restraining orders against him and no documented history of domestic violence in official records, although close friends of the victims have since shared that Semanchik had been concerned about Santos’s behavior in recent months.
Mental health experts and victim advocates are urging the public to take domestic violence warning signs seriously and to support prevention efforts. This tragedy highlights the devastating consequences of intimate partner violence and underscores the need for continued vigilance, education, and resources to protect those at risk.
As the families and communities of Lauren Semanchik and Tyler Webb begin the painful process of grieving, they ask for privacy, prayers, and support. Both will be remembered for their love, compassion, and commitment to helping others.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233
May Lauren and Tyler rest in peace, and may their memory inspire efforts to prevent future tragedies.
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