Galloway Township, New Jersey – Two Galloway Township police officers were attacked while responding to a 911 hangup call on Sunday night, resulting in one officer being stabbed in the face. The incident unfolded as Keith Kiminsky, 30, charged at Officer Erik Tarnow with a knife, leading to a violent confrontation captured on police video.
After the attack, both officers were taken to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center for treatment, with Tarnow undergoing surgery for his injuries. Fortunately, Tarnow was released the following day and is now recovering at home. Officer Hunter Thomas, who also sustained injuries during the altercation, was treated and discharged for a minor head injury.
Authorities revealed that Kiminsky, who had no prior criminal record, now faces serious charges including attempted murder, aggravated assault, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and resisting arrest. He is currently in custody at the Atlantic County Justice Facility awaiting his first court appearance.
In response to the incident, Galloway Township Police Chief Richard Barber emphasized the dangers that law enforcement officers confront daily and expressed gratitude for the support received from the community and assisting agencies. The department acknowledged the collaborative efforts of several police departments, emergency services, and medical personnel in ensuring the officers received prompt and effective care.
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin highlighted the resources available to support the officers, their families, and the department in coping with the aftermath of the violent encounter. Platkin emphasized the importance of mental well-being for officers and encouraged them to utilize the New Jersey Resiliency Program for Law Enforcement for support.
The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face in responding to emergencies, particularly domestic violence calls, which are known to be among the most dangerous interactions. Authorities reinforced the collective effort needed to prevent and address such violence to safeguard officers and communities from harm.
For individuals experiencing domestic violence or in crisis situations, assistance is available 24/7 through dedicated hotlines for immediate support and intervention. Additionally, measures such as Extreme Risk Protective Orders can be pursued to address concerns about firearm access and safety in households facing crisis situations.