State Flags Fly At Half-Staff To Honor Manchester Officer Thompson

Flags will fly at half-staff throughout New Jersey today, after Gov. Chris Christie ordered them lowered in honor of Manchester Township Police Officer Scott R. Thompson, who died last Friday.

Thompson, 47, of Beachwood, who collapsed while working out in the police department’s gym, was laid to rest Thursday. The 15-year member of the Manchester police force had received numerous citations for meritorious service during his law enforcement career, which began in 1988 in Seaside Park. He was set to be promoted to corporal before his death, a promotion that will be conferred posthumously, Manchester Police Chief Lisa Parker said.

“Officer Thompson ‘s selfless devotion to public service and the protection of others makes him a hero and a true role model for all New Jerseyans,” Christie said in announcing the order. “It is appropriate and fitting for the State of New Jersey to recognize his commitment to the welfare and safety of others, to mark his passing, to honor his memory, and to remember his family as they mourn their tragic loss.”

The Facebook page of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department posted photos from the graveside services at Ocean County Memorial Park, which included a 21-gun salute.

Thompson is survived by his wife, Tracy, and daughters Kelsey and Sydney. Friends and co-workers of Thompson started a GoFundMe fundraiser to help them with the costs of the funerals and other immediate expenses. The effort had raised nearly $11,000, just more than of the goal of $20,000,as of Friday morning.

If you would like to help the family, click here to contribute.

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(Officer Scott Thompson’s car sits draped in bunting in front of Manchester Township’s municipal building on Monday evening. Credit Karen Wall)