Beloved Wayne Police Detective Dies Of Cancer, Department Says

WAYNE, NJ — The Wayne Township police department and other first responders are mourning a police officer who died Wednesday of cancer, and remembering him as a helpful and supportive colleague.

Detective First Class Eric Jason Clemente, who went by “Jay,” died after seven years of battling an aggressive form of cancer, the police department said in a social media post.

"Jay was light hearted, quick witted and a consummate professional," the post read. "A tremendous community policing-minded officer and good friend, Jay will be missed by many."

After being diagnosed in 2016 with pancreatic cancer, Clemente fought "with a valor, dignity and grace that was awe inspiring to those who knew him," the department added.

Mayor Christopher Vergano ordered that all flags at the municipal complex and other township properties fly at half-mast in Clemente's honor. Vergano said the detective "was a caring friend and inspiration not only to me as I fought cancer but to all that knew him."

"Jay was an integral part of our Township and our Police Department and stood steadfast while fighting his own personal battle with cancer over the last 7 years," Vergano wrote on social media.

Many people offered their condolences and prayers to his family and the Wayne PD and thanked Clemente for his service, including Councilman-at-Large Jason DeStefano, who said he would be missed by many.

Wayne Fire Company #5 remembered Clemente as "a friend and a true professional who was always willing to share his knowledge" and assist the company with water rescue training.

Pequannock Township Police also extended their condolences to the Wayne PD and to Clemente's family, saying the detective "was a friend to many Pequannock police officers in various situations," and a "welcoming face" to see during late nights at local diners.

"Detective Clemente provided support for Chief Spring in his battle with cancer even while facing his own seven-year battle," the Pequannock PD wrote. "He will be remembered by the Pequannock PD as kind, caring and an outstanding officer."

As of Friday morning, Feb. 9, Det. Clemente's funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.