WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez today released the following statement on the death of New Jersey State Trooper Anthony Raspa, who was killed in the line of duty this weekend when the vehicle he and his partner were in struck a deer in East Freehold:

"The New Jersey State Police suffered a deep and profound loss with the death of Trooper Anthony Raspa. His tragedy reminds us all of the risks our men and women in blue face each and every day to protect us. They go to work not knowing what dangers they may encounter and face the reality that they may not return to their families at night. They deserve our appreciation and gratitude.

“Although he had been on the job for just two years, Trooper Raspa has been described as a young man with limitless promise and potential, who served with pride and passion.

“I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of Trooper Raspa and the entire New Jersey State Police during this difficult time. His sacrifice will never be forgotten.

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