On August 1, 2025, Sergeant Ricardo fatally shot 33-year-old veterinarian Lauren Semanchik and her new boyfriend, 29-year-old firefighter Tyler Webb, at Lauren’s home in Pittstown, New Jersey. Their bodies were discovered the next day by Lauren’s father. Ricardo, who had previously dated Lauren, was later found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in a white Mercedes SUV parked nearly an hour away.

Investigators revealed that Ricardo had been stalking and harassing Lauren since their breakup in 2024. Despite her efforts to obtain restraining orders and report the harassment—including him showing up at her work, tampering with her car, and placing recording devices in her home—authorities allegedly failed to act. Surveillance footage confirmed he followed her home the night of the murders, moments before Tyler arrived.

The tragedy shocked the community and highlighted systemic failures in protecting victims of domestic abuse. Lauren’s family expressed heartbreak and frustration, calling Ricardo a “coward” for taking his own life before facing justice. Governor Phil Murphy’s office, where Ricardo once served on the security detail, also issued a statement expressing shock over the incident.

In the aftermath, friends and loved ones of both victims paid tribute. A GoFundMe campaign praised Lauren’s compassion as a veterinarian, while Tyler’s fire department honored his service and dedication. Both families are now channeling their grief into calls for reform, demanding stronger legal protections for victims of harassment and stalking.