Authorities reported Sunday that a New Jersey police officer died two months after being wounded during a scuffle with a suspect.
Deptford officer Robert Shisler “paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty” when he died from his injuries on Sunday, according to police chief Joseph Smith in a news release.
According to the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, the 27-year-old cop was brought to the hospital on March 10 after he and armed suspect Mitchell Negron exchanged shots.
According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Shisler fatally shot Negron, who was declared dead at the scene.
According to the attorney general’s office, Negron fled Shisler when the officer attempted to stop him as he was strolling. According to NJ.com, a.38 special pistol belonging to Negron was seized at the site.
“Our deepest sympathies are with the Shisler family during this difficult time of bereavement,” Smith, the police chief, said. “Though nothing can take away the pain of his passing, Bobby’s incredible strength and bravery will be an unforgettable example of being Deptford Strong. He was the best of all of us.”
Shisler was born and raised in the town, and lived there before his tragic death. His prolonged hospital stay was at Cooper University Hospital in Camden.
“Officer Shisler will always be remembered for his dedication and commitment to the residents of this great community,” Smith said. “We are extremely grateful and thankful for his service.
“He will be sorely missed, but never forgotten.”
Following the shooting, the police department continued to ask residents to pray for Shisler as he fought to recover. Local students wrote get-well letters to the cop and various community events were held to raise funds for the officer’s hospital bills.
On Shisler’s behalf, the department encouraged individuals to donate blood and attend a first-aid course. A social media movement called #shislerstrong expressed support for the officer.
According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Shisler’s grandmother stated in an April 24 Facebook post that he had undergone multiple operations and had lost part of his right leg.
“Thank you so very much for your prayers and love,” Ethel Hawkins wrote, noting Shisler’s father and brother were also police officers. “We appreciate each and every prayer for him and our family.”
Shisler’s patrol cruiser was parked outside the local municipal office with flowers and a tiny blue line flag draped over the windscreen on Sunday night.
The state attorney general’s office is still investigating the incident and what caused it.