North Bergen Police Officer Dies In Tragic Accident

Photo Credit:  North Bergen Police Department                                                                                                                                                                                         The North Bergen Police Department suffered a tragic loss early this morning, as Officer Julio Noriega was killed in a motor vehicle accident while on his way to work.  Noriega’s Honda crashed into a garbage truck near 41st Street and Tonnelle Avenue at approximately 7 o’clock.

When personnel arrived, Noriega had to be pulled from his burning car.  He was unconscious.  He was transported to the Jersey City Medical Center when he died a short time later.

The driver of the truck was taken to a hospital with minor injuries.

North Bergen Mayor Nicholas Sacco expressed the Township’s condolences to the family of Officer Noriega, who had been sworn in among a class of five just two years ago. “It is with a very heavy heart that we must announce the tragic death of North Bergen Police Officer Julio Luis Noriega, who was killed in a motor vehicle accident while on his way to work earlier today. Officer Noriega served our community with distinction as a member of the NBPD for the past two years, including being honored as officer of the month in September 2020 for his excellent work solving a robbery, and he and several members of his family have been deeply involved in our community for many years. On behalf of Public Safety Commissioner Allen Pascual, Chief Peter Fasillis and the entire department, I ask North Bergen residents to join us in praying for Officer Noriega’s family, friends and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.”

Hudson County Commission Chairman Anthony Vainieri, who represents North Bergen, stated, “It is with a heavy heart we report the passing of one of North Bergen’s finest. He was an amazing young man and police officer. We offer our deepest condolences to Julio’s family.”

News of this morning’s tragedy was announced by the NBPD in a Facebook post.  “It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the death of Officer Julio Luis Noriega #170 who succumbed to his injuries earlier this morning as a result of a serious motor vehicle accident.  Please pray for Julio’s family and his dear friends during this difficult time,” it said.

Condolences have been coming in from surrounding law enforcement and public safety departments all day.  Hudson TV sends it sympathies to the Noriega family, the North Bergen Police Department and the Township.

Rest in peace Officer Noriega.