SOUTH BRUNSWICK – The South Brunswick Police Department remembered all the officers nationwide killed in the line of duty, especially the two South Brunswick officers who lost their lives in service to our community.
“The work we do is more challenging than ever, and the men and women who are called to this profession know the unique calling. Let us never forget those who answered the call to service and made the ultimate sacrifice to keep our community safe,” Police Chief Raymond Hayducka said in a statement regarding National Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15.
Patrolman John Charles Gurnovich Sr. served with the South Brunswick Police Department for three years.
Gurnovich suffered a heart attack when he was attacked and beaten when he answered a disturbance call at a bowling alley, according to the statement. He struggled with a belligerent suspect who punched him in the chest. He was rushed to the hospital where he remained until his death 12 days later.
His end of watch was June 12, 1966, after three years of service.
Patrolman Robert Anthony Cardone was struck by a passing vehicle during a traffic stop on Oct. 17, 1989. His end of watch came at age 23, after three years of service.