Honor the Sacrifice of New Jersey State Police Sergeant Cornelius A. O'Donnell
Help Us Preserve the Legacy of a Fallen New Jersey State Police Hero.
My name is Gregory Gaertner, and Sergeant Cornelius A. O'Donnell was my great-uncle. Simply known to me as Uncle Dick. Although I never had the opportunity to know him, his courage, sacrifice, and dedication to serving others have been a source of pride for my family for generations.
Today, I am asking for your help to ensure that his story—and his sacrifice—are never forgotten.
On July 16, 1945, New Jersey State Police Sergeant Cornelius A. O'Donnell made the ultimate sacrifice while faithfully serving the people of New Jersey.
On July 16, 1945, Sergeant Cornelius A. O’Donnell #367 and Trooper Frank Perry #565 were escorting a prisoner across the railroad bridge from Martins Creek, Pennsylvania back into Brainards, New Jersey. The prisoner fled to Pennsylvania after murdering his wife with an ax in Orange, NJ. He agreed to return to New Jersey where the Troopers could then arrest him. Near the midpoint of the bridge, there was a struggle, the prisoner managed to pull the service revolver from the sergeant’s holster and fire 3 shots, 2 striking Sergeant O’Donnell and 1 hitting Trooper Perry. They were taken to the Warren Hospital in Phillipsburg where Sergeant O’Donnell died a few hours later. Trooper Perry recovered from his wounds.
The prisoner escaped into Pennsylvania and after one of the largest multi-agency manhunts at that time, was captured the next day. He was convicted of murder and died in jail in 1962.
My uncle served 17 years and 4 months with the New Jersey State Police. He was survived by my Aunt, Alice.
Sergeant O'Donnell gave his life while protecting others and carrying out his sworn duty.
More than 80 years have passed since that tragic day, yet there is no permanent marker at the location where he fell in the line of duty. Sergeant O'Donnell is one of only three New Jersey State Troopers killed in Warren County New Jersey.
Our goal is to install a permanent historical marker near the site of the incident in Brainards, Harmony Township, New Jersey. This marker will serve as a lasting tribute to Sergeant O'Donnell's courage and sacrifice while educating future generations about a New Jersey State Police officer who gave everything in the service of others.
As Sergeant O'Donnell's great-nephew, this project is deeply personal. It is my way of honoring not only a member of my family but also a man whose selfless service deserves to be remembered by all New Jerseyans. I believe every fallen law enforcement officer deserves to have their story preserved, and this marker will ensure that for my uncle, Sergeant O'Donnell.
I, along with Captain Thomas Van Tassel #2931 (Ret) and Sergeant William Sirotnak #2005 (Ret) of the New Jersey State Police are spearheading this important effort.
Funds raised will be used for:
• Designing and manufacturing the permanent historical marker
• Site preparation and installation
• Creating a lasting memorial that will stand for generations
Every contribution, no matter the amount, brings us one step closer to honoring Sergeant O'Donnell's memory. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this campaign with friends, family, fellow law enforcement officers, veterans' organizations, historical societies, and community groups.
From my family to yours, thank you for helping us honor the life and legacy of a true New Jersey hero.
Heroes are only forgotten when their stories are no longer told. Help us ensure Sergeant Cornelius A. O'Donnell's story lives on.