By Police1 Staff
HAMILTON, N.J. — Authorities said an off-duty officer died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head before he struck a van.
Tom White, 44, was pronounced dead at the scene after he rear-ended a van Monday, NJ.com reported. He was found unresponsive behind the wheel of his truck. The van driver was not injured.
White joined the Hamilton Township police in 2009 and ran an anti-drug program at the middle school. He was co-director for the town’s Police Athletic League Safety Town as well.
“Officer White has touched many lives and worked to ensure the safety of our young people,” Mayor Kelly Yaede said. “I want to extend our collective sympathies and our prayers for Officer White’s family and loved ones during this extremely difficult time. May they always take solace in the fact that his legacy will endure through the achievements of the countless children he served across our community.”
The death of an officer is felt by the entire LE community and can take a heavy toll. Take a look at our articles on police suicide and how to prevent PTSD. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, call the Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.