Funds Raised For Family Of Barnegat Man Who Died From Gun Wound

James Hammer was a longtime veteran, a corrections officer, a father to six, a husband and a grandfather. After serving his community, Hammer's family needs the community's help.

Hammer, 46, of Barnegat, died last weekend after suffering wounds from an accidental gunshot, officials said. His daughter, Samantha, created a GoFundMe for expenses such as putting him to rest.

The community has raised $2,775 in 17 hours in the GoFundMe as of Monday morning. Samantha set the goal to $20,000.

James Hammer served in the military for 21 years as a combat veteran for the Marines, Air Force and Army National Guard, Samantha said. He later became a corrections officer and part of the CERT team, according to Samantha.

"He was devoted to his family & his work," the GoFundMe says. "At this time expenses need to be prepaid prior to my father being put to rest. My family would be forever grateful for anyone’s help at this time. May my father rest in eternal peace."

"I will remember CO Hammer as always smiling and never having a bad thing to say about anyone," Lisa Bolka wrote on the GoFundMe. "We talked often at work about his long commute and he said everything he did was for his family. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you."

"I worked with Sgt. Hammer at SCI Retreat, he was a good man," Alexandria Shaffer wrote on the fundraiser. "Great to talk to. He will be missed!"