Holly MatkinBurlington, NJ – Burlington Police Department (BPD) Detective Steven Cosmo died unexpectedly on May 8, according to his department.
The 29-year-old detective passed away with his family by his side, according to his obituary.
Det. Cosmo’s exact cause of death was not released.
The BPD announced the young detective’s death in a Facebook post the following day.
“We send our condolences to Det. Cosmo’s loved ones,” the department said. “Please keep Det. Cosmo’s family, the Burlington Twp. PD and the entire community in your thoughts and prayers. We honor Det. Cosmo’s memory and thank him for his service to our country and community.”
Det. Cosmo enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps at the age of 16 and attended boot camp at Parris Island after graduating from high school, according to obituary.
He served as an infantryman until his honorable discharge in 2014.
Det. Cosmo was then immediately hired by the BPD.
“He served his community proudly and steadfastly, being awarded Officer of the Year in 2016 and making detective in 2018—both being incredible accomplishments so early in his career,” his obituary read. “Steven’s contagious smile, kindness, and decency will always be remembered.”
Det. Cosmo was a member of the BPD’s Bicycle Patrol Unit and also served as a field training officer, according to the BPD.
He was promoted to the rank of detective in 2019.
Det. Cosmo leaves behind his mother, Donna, as well as his siblings, nephews, niece, uncles, and aunts.
He is also survived by “his fellow Marines; and his Brothers and Sisters in Blue,” the tribute read.
Det. Cosmo was laid to rest on May 16.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Burlington Police Department Detective Steven Cosmo, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
