'Sister In Blue', Retired Bergen Co. Police Detective Dies

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — News on Wednesday of the death of retired Bergen County police Det. Heather Castronova elicited mourning on social media.

"So incredibly sad to see this," New Jersey state Sen. Holly Schepisi said of the passing of Castronova, who died overnight, police officials confirmed, due to "unknown medical circumstances."

"Thank you for your service to our country and to the Washington Township Police Department," Schepisi added.

Castronova served with the U.S. Marine Corps, and then with the Washington police department as a patrol officer and detective. She retired in 2020 from her career in law enforcement.

Her favorite role, the police department said in a post, was working with the Washington community.

A proud sister in blue, as she was referred to by others, Castronova was a "wonderful caring person" who gave her all to the community, according to social media users.

Castronova's father Arthur Cumming, who died March 2021, served on the Washington Township Council, Zoning and Planning Boards, and Green Team, according to his obit.

"Say hi to your dad in heaven, and we will say prayers for your children and family," Schepisi continued.