Colonel Rick Fuentes, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police today announced the tragic loss of Trooper Eli McCarson #7775 in an on-duty, single vehicle traffic accident. The crash occurred at approximately 10:45 this morning on Quinton-Alloway Rd. near the intersection of Rt. 49 as Tpr. McCarson was responding to a report of a domestic dispute in the same town.

Tpr. McCarson’s vehicle went off the right side of the road and into an electric utility pole. He was entrapped for a short time while rescuers had to open the jammed doors. He was then transported to Salem hospital where he was pronounced shortly after noon. The exact cause of death has not yet been determined, and the crash is still under investigation.

“Whether it’s facing an armed assailant, or responding to a critical call on a rainy day, troopers and other law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect every member of the public. This is a tragic loss for us, made even worse during this holiday season, but I know our troopers will not flinch. They will continue their duties and answer every call with others in mind, just as Trooper Eli McCarson was doing when he gave his life in the line of duty,” said Colonel Fuentes.

Tpr. McCarson, 30 years old, of Gloucester County, was a member of the 155th State Police Class, which graduated February 20, 2015. He was working out of Woodstown Station. He was married.

“We ask for the media’s forbearance as the State Police family absorbs this tragedy, and ask that respect and privacy be given to Tpr. McCarson’s family and the members of his station,” the NJSP said.

[TLS]