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Veterinarian Killed by Obsessive Ex-Boyfriend in Chilling Domestic Violence Tragedy
5 Aug
Summary
- Sergeant fatally shot ex-girlfriend and her new boyfriend
- Victim tried to flee but was shot in the back
- Killer later died by suicide in his vehicle
On August 5, 2025, a chilling domestic violence tragedy unfolded in New Jersey. Sergeant First Class Ricardo Santos, a former member of the state's elite governor protection unit, stalked and murdered his ex-girlfriend, 33-year-old veterinarian Dr. Lauren Semanchik, and her 29-year-old boyfriend, firefighter Tyler Webb.
According to the investigation, Santos had been obsessively stalking Semanchik for over a year after she ended their brief three-month relationship in September 2024. Despite Semanchik's attempts to get restraining orders and escape his harassment, the abuse continued, with Santos keying her car, planting recording devices in her home, and even contacting her colleagues for help.
On the evening of August 1, 2025, Santos followed Semanchik from her workplace to her home, where he shot her in the back as she tried to flee. Webb was also fatally wounded. Santos then died by suicide in his vehicle, located nearly 50 miles away.
Semanchik's family and colleagues have expressed outrage, stating that multiple institutions, including law enforcement, failed to protect the beloved veterinarian despite her repeated efforts to seek help. Her legacy is one of compassion and advocacy, as she was known for her kind-hearted and dedicated work caring for animals and their owners.
