Authorities in New Jersey are investigating a chilling double homicide and apparent suicide involving a state trooper who had once served as a supervisor on Governor Philip D. Murphy’s executive protection detail.

According to two sources close to the investigation, the suspect—identified as Ricardo Santos—allegedly shot and killed his former girlfriend and a man in Hunterdon County before taking his own life.

The disturbing sequence of events came to light around 12:20 p.m. on Saturday when local police in the Pittstown section of Franklin Township responded to a 911 call. A caller had discovered an unconscious woman with visible physical trauma.

Upon arrival, officers discovered the bodies of two individuals who had suffered fatal gunshot wounds inside the woman’s home. The Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office later confirmed the victims were 33-year-old Lauren Semanchik of Pittstown and 29-year-old Tyler Webb of Forked River.

Semanchik, a veterinarian, owned the home where the shooting occurred. Webb, a volunteer firefighter, was visiting her at the time of the incident. The Pinewald Pioneer Fire Company mourned Webb’s death in a heartfelt Facebook post, highlighting his dedication to public service and his generous spirit.

While the prosecutor’s office did not initially release the name of the suspect, two individuals familiar with the case confirmed that Ricardo Santos, a New Jersey State Trooper, was responsible for the killings.

His body was discovered later that same day in a vehicle at Johnson Park in Piscataway, located over 30 miles from the crime scene. Authorities believe he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Santos, who previously served as a trusted supervisor on the Governor’s executive protection detail, had most recently been assigned to the State Police’s dignitary protection unit—an elite group tasked with guarding high-ranking government officials other than the governor.

His sudden involvement in such a violent act has shocked law enforcement officials and members of the public alike. Family members of Lauren Semanchik say she had recently been harassed by Santos.

Her sister, Deanna Semanchik, revealed in an emotional interview that the relationship between Lauren and Santos had lasted only a few months earlier this year, but that his behavior had become increasingly aggressive and obsessive after the breakup. “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.” The New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, which oversees the State Police, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy.

In a statement, the office conveyed condolences to the families of the victims and acknowledged the devastating impact the incident has had on the broader community. A spokesperson for Governor Murphy also stated that the governor and his office were “shocked and deeply saddened” by the news.

Local residents in Pittstown took to social media to express concern and grief, reporting a significant police presence on Upper Kingtown Road, near the site of the killings.

The neighborhood, typically quiet and close-knit, has been left shaken by the violence. This tragic case highlights the complexities and potential dangers involved in relationships with individuals who have access to firearms and training.

Advocates for domestic violence prevention are calling for renewed focus on mental health evaluations, firearm restrictions for law enforcement officers facing personal crises, and more robust systems to protect individuals from stalking or harassment.

The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities working to piece together the timeline and motives leading to the horrific events. Autopsies and forensic analyses are expected to provide further clarity. Meanwhile, two families—and a community—are left to grieve lives cut short by violence that could potentially have been prevented.