Long Valley Veterinarian Mourned After Apparent Double-Murder, Suicide

LONG VALLEY, NJ — An employee at a local animal hospital was killed by her New Jersey State Trooper ex-boyfriend, according to officials.

Dr. Lauren Semanchik, 33, of Pittstown, died Friday night alongside her current boyfriend, firefighter Tyler Webb, 29, of Forked River, after what police believe to be a "targeted act,” according to the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office.

See Related: NJ State Trooper Kills Ex-Girlfriend, Firefighter She Just Started Dating: Prosecutor

Law enforcement officials confirmed that Semanchik's ex-boyfriend, Sergeant Ricardo Jorge Santos, had followed her home from work the night of the killings. Santos was found dead in his vehicle the following day in Piscataway, having suffered from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, authorities said. Officials believe Santos was responsible for the couple's death before taking his own life.

A GoFundMe has been launched to support Semanchik's family at this time.

"One of (Semanchik's) passions as a veterinarian was compassionate, empathetic, gentle end-of-life care, and that alone speaks volumes to her character," the GoFundMe reads. "She was gentle, never judgmental, and gave hugs and hand-holding to families that needed support the most during their most difficult moments."

Semanchik worked at Long Valley Animal Hospital and was not only described as a “phenomenal veterinarian” but also “one of the kindest souls you could ever encounter.”

Before becoming a veterinarian, Semanchik worked at Oldwick Animal Hospital as kennel help personnel in 2009. She soon became a veterinary technician and followed in the footsteps of her mentor, Dr. Janisse Marie Cailles, to pursue a career in veterinary services.

The young doctor studied at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, earning her bachelor’s degree in Science in Microbiology. She continued her studies in Wisconsin, eventually earning her doctorate.

Semanchik started her veterinary career at Oldwick Animal Hospital. She eventually took a position as a relief veterinarian for Long Valley Animal Hospital in 2020, before coming on as a full-time staff member in 2023.

Semanchik belonged to several prestigious veterinary organizations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the International Association for Animal Hospice and Palliative Care. Additionally, she volunteered her time with Lap Of Love, an organization focused on providing compassionate end-of-life care for pets, according to her Long Valley Animal Hospital bio.

When Semanchik wasn’t working with animals, she enjoyed attending live music shows, tending to her garden, and working on interior design projects.

The Long Valley Animal Hospital office will remain closed until Wednesday as the staff deals with the unexpected loss of their team’s “invaluable member.”

“We ask for patience as our Long Valley Animal Hospital family mourns this devastating loss,” a statement read. “One of our team members will reach out directly if you had an upcoming appointment with us this week. We will share information regarding donations in her honor and a memorial in the near future. Thank you for your kindness and understanding.”

Firefighter Mourned

Webb served as a firefighter for the Pinewald Pioneer Fire Company.

"It is with a heavy heart and deepest regret that the Pinewald Pioneer Fire Company announces the untimely passing of Firefighter Tyler Webb," a statement read. "Tyler served our department with dedication and honor. He held the positions of Chief Engineer, Past Lieutenant, and Past Trustee during his time with the company. His contributions to our company and community will never be forgotten."

See Related:

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• Double-Murder, Suicide Rocks Quiet NJ Communities: What We Know