Ocean County Police Shooting: Victim Identified as Investigation Continues

Ocean County Police Shooting: Victim Identified as Investigation Continues

The fatal shooting is being investigated by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General.

A woman who was shot and killed in a confrontation involving Ocean County police this week has been named by state authorities.

On Monday at two in the morning, Susanne Clarke,55, a township resident, was shot after dialing 911.

According to Lacey Township Police Department, on Monday, March 16, 2026, at approximately 2:00am, in Lacey Township, a police encounter involving officers from the Lacey Township Police Department occurred in the vicinity of Hemlock Drive, Lanoka Harbor.

One police officer from the Lacey Township Police Department was transported to a local hospital to seek medical treatment for a non-life threatening injury. There were several additional officers on scene who did not sustain any injuries.

Officer Dallas Gant of the Lacey Township Police Department responded at 2:44 a.m. and shot Clarke with his service pistol. Clarke died at the scene. According to officials, a knife was found by law enforcement outside the house.

As is the case with all police-related incidents, state law enforcement was now reviewing the fatal shooting.

According to an online obituary, born in New Brunswick, Susanne Michele Clarke spent many years in Chesterfield raising her children before recently moving to Lanoka Harbor to enjoy life closer to the beach.

As a dog lover, she was starting her own small business in addition to being a licensed optician.

She was a valued friend, dedicated daughter, loving mother, and lively presence in everyone's lives. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Friends of Southern Ocean County Animal Shelter , who cared for her beloved dogs, Sammy and AJ, during this difficult time.