Cop Funeral Procession Reopens After Route 28 On Monday In Bridgewater

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — A funeral procession for a police officer caused a portion of Route 28 to close on Monday in Bridgewater.

The closure occurred on Jan. 24 between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Route 28 between Vanderveer Road and Villa Drive in Bridgewater, township police said.

The roadway has since reopened.

This road closure was for the funeral of Allentown, PA Detective James Stanko.

"Please expect a large police activity in this area during this timeframe. We appreciate everyone's patience as Detective Stanko's family and the Allentown (Pa) Police Department celebrates his life. Please avoid the area during this time if possible," said Bridgewater Police.

Area residents and businesses will have full access within the road closure.

Stanko was born in Philadelphia, PA before moving to Pottersville, NJ where he and his brother Joe grew up.

Stanko graduated from Voorhees High School, and throughout his life was an avid bodybuilder and athlete, according to his obituary.

Stanko worked for NJ Transit for many years and had many different jobs until he joined law enforcement in 2009.

He served the City of Allentown, PA as an officer, a detective, and as the Liaison for the police and the community.

Stanko's funeral service will be live-streamed on Evangel Chapel Bridgewater's YouTube channel.

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