NJ State Trooper Accused of Double Murder Before Suicide, Investigators Say

Tragic Double Murder in New Jersey

• 💔 Dr. Lauren Samek, a veterinarian, and her boyfriend, volunteer firefighter Tyler Webb, were fatally shot inside Samek's home in Franklin Township, Hunterdon County.
• 🎯 Investigators believe New Jersey State Police Sergeant Ricardo Santos, Samek's ex-boyfriend, is responsible for both murders.
• 🚗 Santos was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound inside his Mercedes nearly an hour away from the crime scene.

Allegations of Stalking and Harassment

• 📅 Family members state that Santos had been stalking Samek since their breakup nearly a year prior, after a 3-month relationship.
• 🚫 Samek reportedly tried to block Santos multiple times, but he continued to harass her by calling from restricted numbers, showing up at her work, keying her car, placing recording devices in her home, and putting water in her gas tank.

Systemic Failures Alleged

• 🗣️ The family of Dr. Samek expressed that "a lot of agencies failed her," stating she attempted to obtain restraining orders but received no callbacks.
• 🔍 Prosecutors responded to reports of gunshots and screams Friday night but were unable to locate the source, with victims discovered Saturday.

Governor's Detail and Investigation

• 🛡️ CBS News New York learned that Santos had previously worked on Governor Phil Murphy's detail.
• 📰 A spokesperson for the governor expressed shock and devastation but stated they could not comment further due to the ongoing investigation.
• ⚖️ The Hunterdon County Prosecutor's Office is seeking information from the public regarding the case, as Samek's family vows to continue seeking justice.