GoFundMe launched to honor fallen New Jersey State Police sergeant with permanent memorial in Warren County
HARMONY TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Warren County) — A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to raise money for a permanent historical marker honoring New Jersey State Police Sgt. Cornelius A. O’Donnell, who was killed in the line of duty more than 80 years ago in Warren County.
The fundraising effort is being organized by Hackettstown resident Gregory Gaertner, O’Donnell’s great-nephew, along with retired New Jersey State Police Capt. Thomas Van Tassel and retired Sgt. William Sirotnak.
According to the campaign, O’Donnell was escorting a murder suspect across a railroad bridge from Martins Creek, Pennsylvania, into the Brainards section of Harmony Township on July 16, 1945, when the suspect wrestled away the sergeant’s service revolver and opened fire. O’Donnell was struck twice and later died at Warren Hospital in Phillipsburg. Trooper Frank Perry, who was also shot, recovered from his injuries.
The suspect fled into Pennsylvania but was captured the following day after what organizers described as one of the largest multi-agency manhunts of its time. He was later convicted of murder and died in prison in 1962.
O’Donnell served with the New Jersey State Police for 17 years and four months and is one of only three state troopers killed in the line of duty in Warren County.
Gaertner said the project is intended to preserve his great-uncle’s legacy for future generations.
“Today, I am asking for your help to ensure that his story—and his sacrifice—are never forgotten,” Gaertner wrote on the fundraising page.
Organizers say there is no permanent marker at the location where O’Donnell was fatally wounded. Funds raised will be used to design, manufacture and install a historical marker near the site of the shooting in Brainards.
“As Sergeant O’Donnell’s great-nephew, this project is deeply personal,” Gaertner said. “It is my way of honoring not only a member of my family but also a man whose selfless service deserves to be remembered by all New Jerseyans.”
The campaign also encourages those unable to donate to share the fundraiser with family, friends, veterans organizations, historical societies and community groups.
To donate or learn more about the campaign, visit the GoFundMe website.
