New Jersey State Trooper Killed After Patrol Car Hits Deer
By Pat Loeb, Matt Rivers
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A New Jersey State trooper was killed and his partner was injured when their patrol car hit a deer on I-195 in Monmouth County early Saturday morning.
The 24-year-old trooper killed has been identified as Anthony Raspa of Middlesex. He was the driver of the car and was pronounced dead at the hospital, suffering from severe internal injuries.
State Police Captain Steve Jones said the accident occurred just before 1 a.m and that the troopers were patrolling the road.
"A deer ran out in front of our patrol car," said Jones, "struck the troop car and then (the car) lost control and it ran off into the woods, hitting some trees."
Authorities say it was the impact of the trees that killed Raspa and injured 29-year-old trooper Gene Hong, who was in the passenger seat. Hong was treated for minor injuries.
Jones said the grief is felt by the entire state police family:
"When you suffer a tragedy like this, it's really not just his squad mates, it's really the whole state police family that feels that loss. It fortunately does not happen that often, but when it does it's just a tragedy for all of us."
Raspa's family released the following statement:
"Today our family lost an incredible son, brother, grandson, cousin, friend and person. Anthony was a phenomenal young man with a heart of gold and a passion for life. While he is no longer physically with us, we are so grateful for the 24 years of love and loyalty we shared with him. Anthony was passionate about law enforcement and took great pride in being a NJ State Trooper. He will forever be in our minds and in our hearts. The family is so appreciative of all of the love and support. We ask that you respect our privacy at this time as we continue to grieve."
This is the second line of duty death on I-195 in five years. In 2010, Trooper Marc Castellano was struck by a car while outside of his vehicle on the road.