New Jersey troopers honor fallen officer at Hope Station memorial dedication

by Phil Stilton

HOPE, NJ – Members of the New Jersey State Police, local officials, and the family of Trooper Scott Gonzalez gathered Friday at Hope Station to dedicate a new memorial honoring the fallen trooper on the 28th anniversary of his death.

Trooper Gonzalez was killed in the line of duty on October 24, 1997, after being shot while pursuing a burglary suspect.

New Jersey troopers honor fallen officer at Hope Station memorial dedication
New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan joins Station Commander Lt. Gregory Lewis, New Jersey State Police Chaplain Carlos Cedeno, Hope Mayor Timothy McDonough, Captain Nicholas Soranno (Ret), Lt. Gary Talijan (Ret), Scott Gonzalez sister Susan Wolf and Scott Gonzalez nephew Sgt. Kieth McCormick at the Scott Gonzalez Memorial Dedication Ceremony at Hope Station in Hope, N.J. on Friday, Oct. 24, 2025. On October 24, 1997, Trooper Gonzalez was in pursuit of a burglary suspect and corne

The ceremony brought together active and retired troopers, Hope Mayor Timothy McDonough, and Colonel Patrick J. Callahan to pay tribute to Gonzalez’s service and sacrifice.


Key Points

  • Trooper Scott Gonzalez was killed in 1997 while pursuing a burglary suspect
  • A new memorial was dedicated at Hope Station in his honor
  • Family, friends, and law enforcement gathered to commemorate his legacy

A lasting tribute at Hope Station

The new memorial stands at Hope Station, where Gonzalez was assigned before his death. Officials said the site will serve as a permanent reminder of his courage and dedication to duty.

Remembering a life of service

During the ceremony, speakers reflected on Gonzalez’s commitment to public safety and the risks faced by troopers in the line of duty. The Gonzalez family expressed gratitude for the continued support and remembrance from the law enforcement community.

Honoring the fallen

The dedication marks nearly three decades since Gonzalez’s death, underscoring the enduring bond among New Jersey State Police members and their pledge to never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

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