Holly MatkinNewark, NJ – Newark Police Division (NPD) Lieutenant Richard Weber died unexpectedly on May 1.
His exact cause of death was not immediately released.
Newark Public Safety Director Fritz Frage and Mayor Ras Baraka announced the 47-year-old lieutenant’s death “with deepest regret” in a press release two days later.
“With heavy hearts, we offer our deepest condolences to the Weber family,” Director Frage said. “Lieutenant Weber was a highly respected public servant, a devoted brother, and a trusted friend to all. We offer prayers of comfort and peace to all who join us in mourning his loss.”
Lt. Weber joined the NPD on Jan. 27, 1999 and went on to serve in numerous units during his 24-year career, including the Safe City Task Force, 3rd Precinct, Narcotics, 4th Precinct Detective Bureau, and the Community Focus Division.
He was assigned to the Newark Police Major Crimes Division Criminal Intelligence Section at the time of his death.
“We extend our most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Lieutenant Weber,” Mayor Baraka said. “We are grateful that he faithfully dedicated the past 24 years of his life to safeguarding Newark and keeping our neighbors and visitors safe. His service is a debt we can never repay, but his legacy lives on in our city through the lives of those he protected.”
Lt. Weber leaves behind his wife, Virginia, as well as his sons, Patrick and Jonathan, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his parents, siblings, nephews, nieces, extended family members, friends, and his family at the NPD.
“We applaud and salute Newark Police Lieutenant Richard Weber for his service,” the police department said. “May he forever Rest in Peace.”
Lt. Weber will be laid to rest on May 5.
With sadness we extend condolences to the Newark Police Department and the family of Lieutenant Richard Weber. Lieutenant Richard Weber of the Criminal Intelligence Section passed away earlier this week… pic.twitter.com/NE4ZMlTJCR
— NJ TRANSIT POLICE (@NJTransitPolice) May 3, 2023
Mayor Baraka and Director Fragé Announce Passing of Newark Police Lieutenant Richard Weber, 47, who passed away suddenly on May 1, 2023. Lt. Weber began his career with Newark PD in 1999 and most recently in the Criminal Intelligence Section. https://t.co/T1WJLelhwG via @Nextdoor pic.twitter.com/8r2ToeIZ4y
— Dept. Public Safety (@NewarkNJPolice) May 3, 2023
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Newark Police Division Lieutenant Richard Weber, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
