Detective Melvin Vincent Santiago

Detective Melvin Vincent Santiago

Jersey City Police Department, New Jersey

End of Watch Sunday, July 13, 2014

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Melvin Vincent Santiago

Detective Melvin Santiago was shot and killed at 4:09 am when he and his partner responded to a robbery call at a 24-hour pharmacy on the corner of Communipaw Avenue and John F. Kennedy Boulevard.

A male subject had entered the store and assaulted a private security guard. He severely beat the guard and stole his service weapon, then waited for responding officers to arrive with the intention to ambush them.

Detective Santiago and his partner had just pulled into the parking lot as the man exited the building and opened fire on them without warning. Detective Santiago was struck in the head before he was able to exit from the patrol car's passenger seat.

Other responding officers returned fire and killed the subject.

Detective Santiago had graduated from the academy only six months prior to the incident. He was survived by his mother and stepfather.

Bio

  • Age 23
  • Tour 6 months
  • Badge 2650

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Shot and killed

robbery

Most Recent Reflection

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Det. Santiago,
On today, the 10th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Jersey City. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

July 13, 2024

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