Patrolman Benjamin "bj" voss
On September 7, 2013, Patrolman Voss worked a 15 hour work shift beginning at
midnight of that day and continuing until 3pm. Patrolman Voss was required to stay a mandatory extra shift of 8am – 3pm due to a manpower shortage that day and his status as the junior officer based on seniority.
Both of Patrolman Voss’ duty shifts of September 7 were very busy, especially the day shift. Many calls were handled by a minimum of patrol staff, including a breaking and entering in progress, an infant not breathing, an overdose and domestics.
Patrolman Voss was relieved at 3pm and travelled to an automobile dealership in Rhode Island with his wife and child for a previously made appointment. While at the dealership, a mere 2 hours and 48 minutes after his stressful 15 hour shift, Patrolman Voss collapsed in the company of family. Efforts were begun to revive Patrolman Voss immediately by persons close by, and emergency medical personnel were contacted. Patrolman Voss was transported to Kent Hospital by ambulance, where he never regained consciousness and was pronounced dead.
The Town of Somerset is grateful to, and grieves with, BJ's widow and his two children. We are forever humbled by their sacrifice and strengthened by their friendship. Those who knew BJ, will attest to the magnitude of his loss.
