Morris County Man, State Police Recruit Killed During Training

NEW JERSEY - A 27-year-old Boonton man died Tuesday after sustaining an injury during training at the New State Police Academy. An investigation into the death of Recruit Lucas C. Homeijer is ongoing, according to Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police Colonel Patrick J. Callahan.

“One of the hardest things I’ve ever had to go through as a trooper, and as a dad, too,” said Callahan during Wednesday's COVID-19 briefing in Trenton.

Last Wednesday, Homeijer, who was a member of the 161st New Jersey State Police Academy Class, was engaged in an active countermeasures/boxing bout with a fellow classmate at the State Police academy in Sea Girt Borough, when he lost consciousness, officials said.

Academy staff immediately stopped the exercise, rendered first aid, and contacted emergency medical services to respond, officials said. Homeijer was transported to a local area hospital where he received treatment for several days before succumbing to his injuries, officials said.

Callahan noted that Homeijer attended troop youth week as a 17-year-old and said it is rare for an attendee to do that and go into recruit class.

According to authorities, the circumstances surrounding this incident are under review and no further information is being provided at this time. Callahan asked that people give the family space while a "thorough review" is being done.

The Morris County Board of Freeholders issued a statement today on the passing Homeijer.

“Our hearts go out to the Homeijer family and the entire community of Boonton on the tragic loss of Lucas Homeijer. The passing of this young, vibrant State Police recruit is deeply saddening as well as untimely. To his parents, Don and Denise, we mourn with you. To the family and all of Boonton, you are all in our prayers.”

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