Barnegat's 'Hoofy's Fall Fest' Remembers Officer Alex Hoffman

BARNEGAT, NJ — Alex Hoffman was devoted to the badge, friends and family and had an outstanding work ethic, according to people at "Hoofy's Fall Fest." The event honored the Barnegat police officer and helped his family.

"Hoofy's Fall Fest" was organized by officers Tim Bradshaw and Lauren Keilitz, both of whom worked closely with Hoffman. The goal of the festival was to remember the life of Hoffman as well as raise money to help his wife and children.

Hoffman, 40, died on Oct. 2 from an apparent medical episode while he worked his second job in construction. He began his career as a Barnegat police officer in 2003.

High winds and chilly temperatures did not deter family, friends and community members from turning out for the emotionally-charged festival. There was a $10 admittance for adults and $5 for children.

Hoodies with Hoffman's last name, and the number 70 were sold to attendants. All of the proceeds made went to Hoffman's family.

There were food trucks, games, face-painting and live musical entertainment. The self-described "fitness fun on wheels" Fun Bus entertained kids. There were local breweries Manafirkin, Oyster Creek Brewing and the veteran owned Backward Flag present for the event.

According to Bradshaw, "Hoofy" was a nickname given to Hoffman by his fellow officers.

The number 70 on the back of the hoodie is in reference to Hoffman's badge number 370. According to Keilitz, Hoffman was referred to as "seven-zero" over dispatch.

"It's amazing the amount of support we have received from the community," Bradshaw said.

"Alex was a fair and honest guy," Keilitz said. "He was very much his own person inside the job. He fit the mold of a cop, he was reasonable and very relatable."

Bradshaw plans to make the festival a yearly event but in warmer weather.

"It's awesome that despite the cold and the high winds, we have such a good turnout," said Barnegat resident Lauren Weber. "It's great that residents from surrounding towns came out to support another family in need."

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