It was fifteen years ago – January 14th, 2011 – that Lakewood Police Officer Chris Matlosz made the ultimate sacrifice for the people of Lakewood. Officer Matlosz – proudly carrying Lakewood Police Department Badge #317 – was brutally murdered by a wanted criminal he encountered in the line of duty.
“Chris was a uniquely exemplary officer and compassionate human being,” recounts Township Committeeman and Emergency Services Liaison Meir Lichtenstein. “Fifteen years may have passed but Chris’s memory and our appreciation for his sacrifice remain as strong as ever.”
“On this somber day, we also honor the memories of other Lakewood officers who have fallen or been injured in the line of duty,” Committeeman Lichtenstein adds, “as well as the brave men and women in blue who put their lives on the line on behalf of Lakewood each day.”
Shortly after Officer Matlosz’s passing, 3rd Street between Clifton and Lexington Avenues – where Lakewood Town Hall is located – was renamed by the Township Committee as “Matlosz Way” as a permanent tribute to Officer Matlosz’s memory.
Can’t believe it’s 15 years. So sad remember it so well my prayers for his family