'Such a light': NJ double homicide victims remembered for bravery and kindness
To their family and friends, Dr. Lauren Semanchik and Tyler Webb, the victims of a double homicide that shocked this peaceful community, they were that and so much more.
Semanchik was said to be a woman brimming with positivity who was both "precious" and "kind."
Webb is recalled as a man who was a true friend − funny and ferociously devoted to those in his ever-widening circle.
Both had smiles that lit up any room they entered − and both were known for their compassion natures.
Webb was 29 and lived in Forked River. Semanchik was 33 and lived in Pittstown section of Franklin Township. The couple was found in her home on Aug. 3.
The two had recently started dating.
According to officials, the couple was killed by Semanchik's ex-boyfriend, New Jersey State Police trooper Ricardo Santos, who is from South River. Santos previously was a supervisor on Gov. Phil Murphy's protection detail and most recently was assigned to the state's dignitary protection unit.
The Governor's office said it was "shocked" by the double homicide.
"It is with the heaviest heart that I have to share the passing of my 'baby' brother, the man you could always call for a laugh and a helping hand," said Webb's sister, Angela Webb. "He was an incredible friend to so many, an amazing uncle, and will be missed terribly. I'm still in shock as I write this."
Angela Webb said Semanchik was "so sweet, fun, and such a light."
When Semanchik and Webb began dating, Angela Webb said "Tyler lit up when he talked about her and was with her."
"I am so grateful for the happiness she gave my brother over the last few months and feel lucky to have these moments with them," Angela Webb said. "I will never understand this."
On social media, others agreed that if you knew either Semanchik or Webb, you were "lucky."
"Not only was Lauren a phenomenal veterinarian, she was one of the kindest souls you could ever encounter and a friend to us all," said Jennifer Cruz-Fuentes, practice manager at Long Valley Animal Hospital, in a post that shared the news of Semanchik's death on social media.
The veterinary hospital where Semanchik worked is closed through Aug. 6, the post said.
According to her biography on the animal hospital website, Semanchik's journey to becoming a veterinarian was motivated by her deep connection with animals from an early age.
Growing up in Tewksbury, she found great companionship and solace in the presence of animals, ultimately leading her to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.
More: Double homicide investigated in Hunterdon County
At the University of Wisconsin – Madison, she obtained a degree in microbiology in 2013. She then attended the University of Wisconsin for veterinary school, graduating in 2018.
Semanchik's expertise lay in the fields of geriatric care, internal medicine and dentistry. She joined the animal hospital in May 2023 as a staff member after starting in 2020 as a relief veterinarian.
Semanchik also dedicated herself to the organization Lap of Love, a mobile veterinary service focused on providing compassionate end-of-life care for pets.
In her personal life, Semanchik shared her home with two beloved pets − Sneakers, a 21-year-old Domestic Shorthair cat who had been her faithful companion since she was 10 years old, and a disabled Chihuahua mix puppy named Stevie Nicks.
Semanchik also found joy in experiencing live music, cultivating beautiful gardens through her passion for gardening, and expressing her creativity through interior design projects.
The Pinewald Pioneer Fire Company announced the Webb's death Sunday with "a heavy heart and deepest regret."
In his 11 years with the company, he held the positions of chief engineer, lieutenant, trustee and chairman of the Backroom Committee.
"Tyler served our department with dedication and honor," the fire company said. "His contributions to our company and community will never be forgotten."
According to the fire company, Webb began his journey at the station as a teenager, joining through the Boy Scouts of America Venture Crew program. On his 18th birthday, he became a full member and attended the fire academy.
Besides fulfilling his duties at emergencies, Webb was a constant and dependable presence at community events and fundraisers, always ready to lend a hand and represent the department with pride.
"Throughout his time with us, Tyler exemplified what it means to be a firefighter," the company said. "He served with honor and distinction. No matter the position or task, Tyler always stepped up and gave his all. Year after year, Tyler stood out as one of our top responders − consistently, answering the call with bravery, reliability and selflessness. Tyler was more than a firefighter, he was a Brother, a Son and a Friend to us all. His kindness, commitment, and spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him."
Pinewald Pioneer said Webb's legacy will live on in each member.
"Our fire department family has suffered a tremendous loss," the company continued. "Tyler will be forever missed but never forgotten."
A meal train has been established to help the Webb family.
Friends of Webb recently met Semanchik for the first time. In a post on social media, Michael Hull reminisced that Webb did not stop talking about Semanchik to family and friends. Glad to have met Semanchik, Hull said she was "sweet, had a big heart and gave my best friend purpose."
"You both were taken from this life way too soon," Hull said.
Funeral services for Semanchik and Webb have not been announced at this time.
email: cmakin@gannettnj.com
Cheryl Makin is an award-winning feature, news and education reporter for MyCentralJersey.com, part of the USA Today Network. Contact: Cmakin@gannettnj.com or @CherylMakin. To get unlimited access, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.
This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Double homicide victims remembered as dedicated and compassionate
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