N.J. Admin. Code § Executive Order No. 358 (2024)
An Order Directing that the Flag of the United States of America and the Flag of New Jersey Shall Be Flown at Half-Staff at All State Departments, Offices, Agencies, and Instrumentalities During Appropriate Hours on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, in Recognition and Mourning of New Jersey State Trooper Marcellus E. Bethea, Badge #7829
Issued: May 14, 2024.
Effective: May 14, 2024.
WHEREAS, New Jersey State Police Trooper Marcellus E. Bethea, age 33, was a member of the 156th State Police Academy Class and served as a State Trooper for over eight years; and
WHEREAS, Trooper Bethea was born in Edison, New Jersey, and was raised by his parents Walter and Sheila Bethea in Columbus, New Jersey, alongside his brother Darrus; and
WHEREAS, Trooper Bethea graduated from Northern Burlington Regional High School in 2009, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law and Justice from Rowan University in 2013; and
WHEREAS, Trooper Bethea was a loving husband to his wife Katarzyna and father to his daughter Bella; and
WHEREAS, Trooper Bethea, a resident of Florence, New Jersey, was a dedicated member of Troop D at the Moorestown Station in Burlington County; and
WHEREAS, Trooper Bethea was training to become a member of the elite Technical Emergency and Mission Specialist Unit, which is intended to handle extraordinary police emergencies; and
WHEREAS, Trooper Bethea inspired others by embodying the core values of the State Police-Honor, Duty, and Fidelity--and by living a life guided by his deep faith; and
WHEREAS, Trooper Bethea tragically passed away on May 5, 2024, during training activities; and
WHEREAS, it is with deep sorrow that we mourn the loss of Trooper Bethea, who bravely served our State with honor, integrity, and selflessness, and extend our deepest sympathy to his family, friends, and colleagues; and
WHEREAS, the loss of Trooper Bethea is a profound tragedy not only for those closest to him but also for the people of New Jersey, who will always be grateful for his service; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper to honor the exemplary character, outstanding achievements, and cherished memory of Trooper Bethea, and to mark his passing;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, PHILIP D. MURPHY, Governor of the State of New Jersey, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and by the Statutes of this State, do hereby ORDER and DIRECT:
N.J. Admin. Code Executive Order No. 358 (2024)