NJ state trooper Lt. Ricardo Santos kills ex-girlfriend Lauren Semanchik, her new beau in murder-suicide

A tragic incident unfolded in New Jersey as a state trooper, who was once responsible for protecting the governor, took the lives of his ex-girlfriend and her new boyfriend before ending his own life. The heartbreaking event was the culmination of months of stalking and harassment following the breakup between the trooper and his ex-girlfriend.

The Franklin Township police responded to a call reporting an unconscious woman at a Pittstown home. Upon arrival, they discovered the bodies of Lauren Semanchik, 33, and Tyler Webb, 29, who had both been fatally shot in what authorities described as a targeted attack.

The investigation quickly identified the suspect as New Jersey State Police Lt. Ricardo Santos, 45, Semanchik’s ex-boyfriend. Santos was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in his car in Piscataway, approximately 50 miles away from the crime scene. A semiautomatic handgun believed to be the murder weapon was recovered next to Santos.

Prior to the tragic incident, Semanchik had taken measures to protect herself, including installing cameras in her car after reporting Santos’ stalking behavior. Footage from the cameras revealed Santos closely following Semanchik from her workplace to her home, where the fatal confrontation took place.

Semanchik’s family described the harrowing ordeal she endured following the end of her relationship with Santos in September 2024. Despite her efforts to seek help and protection from law enforcement, including attempting to obtain restraining orders, Semanchik continued to face relentless harassment and intimidation from Santos.

Santos, who had previously worked on Gov. Phil Murphy’s protection detail, had a history of escalating behavior towards Semanchik, including placing recording devices in her home and tampering with her vehicle. The failure of multiple agencies to intervene and protect Semanchik highlighted the tragic consequences of domestic violence.

Semanchik, a veterinarian known for her kindness and compassion towards animals, was deeply mourned by her colleagues and community. A GoFundMe page was launched to support her funeral expenses and honor her memory through charitable donations.

Webb, Semanchik’s new boyfriend, was also remembered for his dedication and service as a member of the Pinewald Pioneer Volunteer Fire Company. His contributions to the company and community were cherished and remembered by all who knew him.

The Hunterdon County Prosecutor confirmed that the case was being investigated as an act of domestic violence and a targeted double homicide, shedding light on the devastating impact of such senseless acts of violence on families and communities.