Holly MatkinAudubon, NJ – Audubon Police Department (APD) Officer Michael McCausland died by suicide on Feb. 8, according to his family.
The 38-year-old officer “was loved by everyone,” his father, Jim McCausland, told the Courier Post. “He was caring, understanding, and very community-oriented.”
Prior to going to work for the APD, Officer McCausland served with the Camden City Police Department, according to his obituary.
He was also a lifetime member of the Audubon Fire Department (AFD), where he served as a lieutenant, the AFD said in a Facebook post.
“Mike and I grew up in this town and without question, decided to build a family in Audubon,” his wife, Nicole, said in a Facebook post on Feb. 14. “The AFD was part of the foundation of our relationship and I cherish so many memories with them. When the opportunity came for him to serve with the APD, he had no hesitation and felt a kinship to be able to work for the department that his father and uncles served.”
“I have no words for the outpouring of support, generosity and love to our family,” Nicole wrote. “I am forever grateful and I don’t believe I will ever be able to express the love this town is showing our family during this dark time.”
Officer McCausland also left behind his children, Caitlyn, Michael, and Abigail, according to his obituary.
“I know my children and I are surrounded with so much love and support and we will push forward and honor Mike by living a life he deserved,” Nicole wrote. “I hope everyone will keep him in their memories and hold on to all their beloved stories, so that our children will know how much of a great man their father was.”
A fundraising campaign established to help Officer McCausland’s family in the wake of their loss has raised over $11,900 so far.
Officer McCausland was laid to rest on Feb. 13, according to the AFD.
Chief Gurcsik and the members of the WTPD are heartbroken over the loss of Audobon Police Officer, Michael R. McCausland. Our deepest condolences go to Officer McCausland’s wife, children, family and brothers and sisters in blue. pic.twitter.com/Lk6ZOUMFyM
— Washington Twp PD (@WashingtonTwpPD) February 9, 2021
In the wake of the recent tragic passing of Audubon PD Officer Michael McCausland, I joined Sen. Nilsa Cruz-Perez and @AsmBillSpearman in convening a meeting with local police leadership on the topic of #mentalhealth in the law enforcement community. pic.twitter.com/80imM77n9Q
— Assemblyman Bill Moen (@BillMoen) February 20, 2021
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Audubon Police Department Officer Michael McCausland, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
