A disturbing 911 call reveals the moments when a neighbor first heard gunshots that would claim three lives in Franklin Township, New Jersey.
CBS New York reported Monday that authorities released the emergency recording from the August 2 incident, where Sgt. Ricardo Santos fatally shot his former girlfriend, Lauren Semanchik, 33, and her new boyfriend, Tyler Webb, 29, before killing himself. The double murder-suicide has prompted an investigation into the police department's handling of prior complaints.
Police say Santos used his service weapon to carry out the shootings before turning the gun on himself. The incident has raised serious questions about domestic violence protocols and police response procedures in the Somerset County community.
Neighbor's Emergency Call Captures Tragic Moments
The released 911 recording captures a woman reporting multiple gunshots and screaming from a nearby property. "I just heard a bunch of gunshots and it sounded very loud," the caller told emergency dispatchers. "It's not on this property. I just heard it from this property, um, and I heard some screaming."
Prosecutors revealed that officers initially responded to the scene but left without discovering the bodies. The victims were not found until the following day when Semanchik's father made the grim discovery. This delayed response has become a focal point of the ongoing investigation into the department's actions.
The timing between the emergency call and the discovery of the bodies raises questions about the thoroughness of the initial police response. Authorities have not provided details about why officers left the scene without conducting a complete search of the property.
Family Reveals History of Stalking and Harassment
Semanchik's family members have come forward with disturbing allegations about Santos' behavior leading up to the murders. According to her sister Deanna, Semanchik had repeatedly tried to distance herself from her former boyfriend and sought help from authorities. "She tried to block him many times and he continued to call her from restricted numbers," Deanna said.
The harassment allegedly escalated to physical surveillance and property damage over time. "He showed up at her work, that's where the car was keyed. He put recording devices in her home, water in her gas tank. He harassed her left and right," Deanna revealed. Family members claim Semanchik attempted to obtain a restraining order but never received a callback from police.
These allegations suggest a pattern of domestic violence that may have been known to law enforcement prior to the deadly incident. The family's claims about unreturned calls regarding restraining orders have added scrutiny to the department's handling of domestic violence cases.
Investigation Leads to Administrative Changes
The Hunterdon County Prosecutor's Office has taken decisive action following the shootings by placing key Franklin Township police officials on administrative leave. Police Chief Timothy Snyder and Sgt. Kevin Bollaro were both removed from their positions pending the investigation. Hunterdon County Police Capt. Paul Approvato has been appointed as interim officer-in-charge to oversee department operations.
The victims have been remembered for their contributions to their respective communities. Semanchik worked as a veterinarian, while Webb served as a member of the Pinewald Pioneer Volunteer Fire Company. Their deaths have sent shockwaves through both the medical and emergency services communities in the region.
Franklin Township police have not responded to requests for comment regarding the incident or the ongoing investigation. The prosecutor's office continues to examine the circumstances surrounding both the murders and the department's prior interactions with the parties involved.
Case Highlights Domestic Violence Response Concerns
The Franklin Township incident underscores ongoing challenges in addressing domestic violence cases involving law enforcement personnel. The allegations of ignored pleas for help and inadequate response protocols have sparked broader discussions about police accountability in domestic situations.
Santos' position as a sergeant raises additional questions about oversight and intervention procedures when officers are accused of misconduct.
The administrative changes and ongoing investigation demonstrate the serious nature of the allegations against the department. The appointment of an outside interim leader suggests concerns about potential conflicts of interest or compromised judgment within the existing command structure. These measures aim to restore public confidence while ensuring a thorough examination of all relevant factors.
