PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — A New Jersey state trooper shot in the line of duty in the spring has been recognized for his heroism.
Det. Richard Hershey has been named New Jersey's state trooper of the year.
"Fearless and courageous" is how officials describe Hershey's actions on April 25.
The shooting happened in a mobile home park in Pittsgrove. Police said five women assaulted a woman in her home there and stole her cell phone.
Hershey later went to investigate. That's when, according to police, three men showed up and shot at him, striking him in the stomach. The trooper returned fire, landing a shot on the vehicle as the suspects were leaving the scene.
Police said Hershey had "presence of mind" because the mark in the car is how authorities later were able to identify it.
Hershey was also able to call for assistance, while bleeding profusely.
Authorities declared Hershey's actions "undoubtedly protected the residents of that neighborhood and prevented further tragedy."
Some of the 13 shots fired by the suspects struck other homes while people were inside.
18 people in all were charged in the case, including the alleged shooters and home invaders.
