Franklin Township Police Leaders Suspended After Double Murder Sparks Outrage
Hunterdon County, NJ — The Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office has taken control of the Franklin Township Police Department after what officials described as “serious concerns” over its handling of a domestic violence case that ended in a double murder.
The move comes after the tragic deaths of 33-year-old veterinarian Lauren Semanchik and 29-year-old mechanic and volunteer firefighter Tyler Webb, who were fatally shot inside Semanchik’s home in Pittstown on August 2. Authorities say the gunman was Semanchik’s ex-boyfriend, New Jersey State Police Lt. Ricardo J. Santos, who had allegedly stalked and harassed her for nearly a year.
According to investigators, video evidence from Semanchik’s own vehicle security system showed Santos following her home from work on the evening of August 1. He then approached her home on foot before Webb arrived about 45 minutes later. Santos shot both victims and committed suicide in Piscataway, according to prosecutors.
Semanchik’s family says she frequently asked local and state police for a restraining order to stop the harassment but obtained no protection. Her mother claims that on the night of the shooting, Franklin Township officers responded to reports of gunshots and screaming but did not fully check the home — despite a neighbor pointing out the source of the noise.
In light of these events, Franklin Police Chief Timothy Snyder and Sgt. Kevin Bollaro have been placed on administrative leave, and a captain from the prosecutor’s office will temporarily lead the department.
Prosecutor Renée Robeson said her office is evaluating all Semanchik’s reports to law enforcement, including property damage, intimidation, and harassment.
This tragedy has raised questions about how police handle domestic abuse reports, especially when the accused is a colleague. Advocates emphasize taking all reports carefully, regardless of suspect position.
Anyone experiencing domestic abuse in New Jersey can call the New Jersey Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-572-7233 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or text LOVEIS to 22522.
