KNOWLTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (Warren County) – The New Jersey State Police on Sunday honored the life and service of Trooper II Philip Lamonaco, who was killed in the line of duty more than four decades ago during a motor vehicle stop in Warren County.
State Police Superintendent Col. Patrick Callahan, joined by retired Col. Rick Fuentes and members of the Lamonaco family, gathered along Interstate 80 to mark the 44th anniversary of Lamonaco’s death. The tribute took place at the same location where the trooper was fatally shot on Dec. 21, 1981, authorities said.
Trooper Lamonaco’s wife, Donna Lamonaco, and his son, New Jersey State Police Capt. Michael Lamonaco, attended the ceremony alongside family, friends and fellow troopers.
Callahan offered remarks reflecting on Lamonaco’s sacrifice and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to remembering troopers who lose their lives in the line of duty. Callahan also previously served as Capt. Lamonaco’s trooper coach following his graduation from the State Police Academy.
According to state police, Trooper II Lamonaco was on patrol traveling westbound on Interstate 80 in Knowlton Township at about 4:35 p.m. when he stopped a vehicle. During the stop, a gun battle ensued, and Lamonaco was shot nine times.
He was transported to Mount Pocono Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
State police said Lamonaco’s sacrifice continues to be remembered by the agency and the community he served, adding that their thoughts and prayers remain with the Lamonaco family as they continue to honor his legacy.
