In a quiet home on Upper Kingtown Road in Pittstown, New Jersey, the lives of two people were tragically cut short in what was later determined to be a double murder-suicide. Tyler Webb, a 29-year-old male from Forked River, was found deceased alongside his girlfriend, 33-year-old Lauren Semanchik. Both had sustained fatal gunshot wounds. The discovery was made on Saturday, August 2, 2025, when Semanchik's father went to check on her.
The investigation into the deaths quickly pointed to one suspect: Ricardo Santos, a New Jersey State Police sergeant and Semanchik's ex-boyfriend. Authorities reported that Santos had been stalking Semanchik since their relationship ended nearly a year prior. Family members stated that Semanchik had attempted to get restraining orders against Santos due to his escalating harassment, which included keying her car, placing recording devices in her home, and putting water in her gas tank.
On the Friday night before the bodies were discovered, Franklin Township police had responded to reports of gunshots and screams in the area but were unable to locate the source.
The day the victims were found, Santos was discovered dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound inside his car in Johnson Park in Piscataway, nearly an hour away from the scene of the murders. The Hunterdon County Prosecutor's Office concluded that Santos shot and killed both Semanchik and Webb before taking his own life.
Tyler Webb was remembered as a dedicated and honored member of the Pinewald Pioneer Fire Company, where he had served as Chief Engineer, Past Lieutenant, and Past Trustee. He was also the owner of a mechanic business called Webb's Automotive. Described as a man of integrity and grit, he was known for his kindness and his willingness to help anyone in need. He had a passion for his Harley, his C-10 truck, and spending time with his dog, Luna, as well as his family and friends.
