By: Richard L. Smith
The New Jersey Attorney General’s Office of Public Integrity and Accountability is investigating a fatal police-involved shooting that occurred early Monday morning in the Lanoka Harbor section of Lacey Township.
According to officials, the incident happened on March 16, 2026, shortly after 2:00 a.m., when Lacey Township police officers were dispatched to a residence on Hemlock Drive in the Lanoka Harbor neighborhood following a 911 call reporting a medical emergency.
Authorities say that at approximately 2:44 a.m., officers encountered the civilian caller outside the home.
During that interaction, one officer discharged their service weapon, striking the woman.
The woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Her identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin.
Investigators said a knife was recovered outside the residence near where the encounter occurred.
As is standard procedure in New Jersey for fatal police encounters, the investigation has been taken over by the Attorney General’s Office of Public Integrity and Accountability.
Officials said the investigation remains active and no additional details are being released at this time.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation continues.