SHARE

New Jersey State Police Trooper Anthony Raspa, 24, killed in highway deer crash

BEYOND BERGEN: A New Jersey State Police trooper was killed and another injured overnight when their cruiser struck a deer and veered off I-195 into a bank of trees in Upper Freehold Township.

Photo Credit: Courtesy NEW JERSEY STATE POLICE
Photo Credit: Courtesy NEW JERSEY STATE POLICE

Trooper Anthony Raspa, 24, was pronounced dead at CentraState Medical Center following the 12:48 a.m. crash on the eastbound highway, the NJSP said. No other vehicles were involved.

NJSP Trooper Gene Hong, 29, was taken to Robert Wood Johnson Hospital in Hamilton, where he was treated for lacerations and a neck injury. He was expected to be released soon.

Both troopers were assigned to the Hamilton Station.

Raspa (Badge #7425) was a member of  the 152nd NJSP Class of 10/04/2013.

This is the first State Police line of duty death since James Hoopes was killed in 2012. The last traffic-related death was of Trooper Marc Castellano, who was struck by a car while outside of his vehicle — also on I-195 — in June 2010.

* * * * * *

“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.”

~The Raspa Family

* * * * * *

PHOTO: Courtesy NEW JERSEY STATE POLICE

to follow Daily Voice Pascack Valley and receive free news updates.

SCROLL TO NEXT ARTICLE