Det. Matthew Laudenslager earned the Police Officer of the Year Award for his investigation of a fatal hit and run in November.
The hit-and-run case in November 2024 on Fries Mill Road that claimed the life a pedestrian came with limited evidence at the outset.
But with “innovative and investigative techniques,” Washington Township Det. Matthew Laudenslager was able to secure critical security surveillance footage and worked closely with the community to track down leads.
“Through relentless efforts and determination, he successfully identified, apprehended and arrested the suspect, leading to second-degree charges for leaving the scene of a motor-vehicle crash resulting in death,” Police Chief Patrick Gurcsik said as he presented Laudenslager with the 2024 Police Officer of the Year Award at a township council meeting on Jan. 22.
“This case was one example of the commitment and expertise Det. Laudenslager brings to the job every day on duty and off-duty,” Gurcsik noted. “He continuously goes above and beyond the call of duty, embodying the core values of our department and making a lasting impact on our Washington Township community.”
The fatal hit and run occurred at approximately 8 p.m. on Nov. 4. Preliminary findings revealed that a male pedestrian – later identified as 58-year-old John DeMarco – was struck by an unknown vehicle in the southbound lane of Fries Mill Road while walking on the roadway, according to police.
The vehicle fled the scene following impact, and was not identified at the time of the initial investigation. DeMarco was transported to Cooper Hospital, where he later died of his injuries. Fries Mill Road was closed for approximately two hours and the hit and run remains under investigation.
Police sought the public’s help in the days after and collected and reviewed video footage showing the victim’s movements; knocked on more than 75 doors to conduct interviews with residents and witnesses; contacted and interviewed local businesses for potential leads; actively reviewed additional video sources; and followed up on multiple tips from the community.
On Nov. 20, Destiny Esquilin, of Vineland, was charged with leaving the scene of a fatal crash, a second-degree crime.
The council meeting also saw Gurcsik recognize four members of the community with the 2024 Distinguished Citizen Award: Tom and Tony Verchio, of Verchio’s Produce Outlet, and Skye Robertson and James Donato, of Woodmont Townsquare. They were cited for their efforts to help the department solve the hit and run.
“When faced with such heartbreaking incidents, it’s vital to have the support of our community,” the chief said. “These individuals displayed an incredible commitment to justice and public safety providing invaluable assistance to our police detectives.”
