A routine response to a series of 911 hang-up calls turned into a harrowing ordeal for law enforcement officers on Sunday night, April 7, 2024, when a 30-year-old man attacked two police officers, resulting in one officer being stabbed in the face.
According to the Galloway Township Police Department, officers were dispatched to a residence on the 300 block of Cresson Avenue at approximately 8:30 p.m. after receiving multiple 911 calls that were abruptly disconnected.
In a statement shared on social media, the Galloway Township Police Department shared body cam footage from the officers who responded to the incident.
Upon arrival, officers engaged with the mother of the suspect, identified as Keith Kiminski, who reportedly disclosed that her son was armed with a knife.
Moments later, the video shows Kiminski emerge from the residence and launch a violent assault on the responding officers.
Body camera footage captured the chaotic scene as Kiminski brandished a folding pocket knife and attacked Officer Erik Tarnow, stabbing him on the right side of his face.
In the ensuing struggle, Tarnow and his partner, Officer Hunter Thomas, grappled with Kiminski on the ground until additional law enforcement personnel arrived to assist.
Both officers sustained injuries during the altercation and were subsequently transported to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center for treatment.
Tarnow underwent surgery for his injuries and is currently in stable condition, while Thomas was treated for a minor head injury and released the same evening.
Kiminski was taken into custody and has been charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and resisting arrest. He is presently held at the Atlantic County Justice Facility awaiting further legal proceedings.
“This incident is another reminder of the dangers that our police officers face on a daily basis,” remarked Galloway Township Police Chief Richard Barber. “We are grateful that Officer Tarnow is recovering well, and our department will be here to fully support Erik and his family.”
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin also weighed in on the incident, emphasizing the inherent risks associated with domestic violence calls for law enforcement officers. He underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to prevent and address such incidents in the community, urging individuals in need of assistance to seek help through available resources.