In Memoriam - 1970's

Trooper Werner Foerster

Werner Foerster was born on August 19, 1938 in Leipzig, Saxony, Germany. He was a high school graduate and a veteran of the Vietnam War, serving in the U.S. Army from December 8, 1963 until December 8, 1965. He was also a member of the Deutscher Club of Clark, NJ. He resided in Old Bridge, Middlesex County, New Jersey.

Prior to his enlistment in the New Jersey State Police, Trooper Foerster was employed by Ross Engineering in New Brunswick, New Jersey as a welder.

Trooper Foerster joined the New Jersey State Police as a member of the 82nd State Police Class on July 24, 1970. During his short career, he was stationed at the Toms River, Colts Neck, Fort Dix and Keyport stations. His last assignment, beginning on November 13, 1972, was at Troop "D" Headquarters in New Brunswick. His service with the Division was characterized by loyalty, fearless performance of duty and faithful and honorable devotion to the principals of the New Jersey State Police.

The death of Trooper Foerster was a result of gunshot wounds sustained in the performance of his duty.

At 12:45 a.m. on May 2, 1973, Trooper James M. Harper, assigned to the New Brunswick station on the New Jersey Turnpike, stopped a Vermont registered vehicle approximately 200 yards south of the New Brunswick station. Trooper Foerster, patrolling nearby, backed-up Trooper Harper.

Trooper Harper approached the vehicle and asked the driver for his Driver's License and Registration. Noting a discrepancy in the registration, the driver was asked to step out of his vehicle. The driver was then questioned by Trooper Foerster as Trooper Harper went to question the other occupants.

Shots were fired from within the vehicle at the troopers. There was an exchange of gunfire. In the exchange, Trooper Harper was wounded in the left shoulder and arm. Trooper Foerster was found near his patrol car, deceased. He died from multiple gunshot wounds to his chest sometime between 12:30 a.m and 1:30 a.m.

Trooper Foerster served two years and 10 months with the New Jersey State Police.

Trooper Foerster was survived by his wife and a 3 year-old son. He was 34 years old.