Toms River Officer succumbs to injuries sustained during an off-duty crash on the Garden State Parkway earlier this year.
“It is with profound sadness and deep regret, that the Toms River Police Department announces the passing of Patrolman Brett Hansen badge # 412, at the age of 28. He passed unexpectedly after a brave and valiant battle recovering from extensive injuries sustained in an off-duty motor vehicle accident in January.”
According to police, on January 4th, The New Jersey State Police notified Toms River Police Department of a serious crash involving one of their officers.
Officer Brett Hansen was reportedly traveling on the Garden State Parkway in his vehicle near mile marker 90 when his car collided with a large truck. Officer Hansen, who has been assigned to the patrol division since being hired in August 2015, sustained life-threatening injuries.
Brett joined the Toms River Police Department in August of 2015. He began his law enforcement career with the Camden County Police Department in March of 2013 after his graduation from the Ocean County Police Academy in May 2012.
Brett was raised by his parents James and Laurie, along with his younger brother Tyler in Bricktown.
“Just days before his crash a man snapped this quick picture of his daughter and Officer Hansen. He went to Al’s Pizza with his 6-year-old daughter for lunch, upon entering; they noticed an officer sitting alone. The little girl walked up to Brett to say hello, and they chatted for about ten minutes, all along smiling and enjoying the conversation. This is the kind of police officer and man Brett was, the kind we all strive to be. He will be dearly missed by all.”