Bodycam footage from the Galloway Township Police Department captured a shocking incident where Officer Erik Tarnow was stabbed in the face by Keith Kiminski. The officers were responding to multiple 911 hang-ups at a residence when they encountered the situation. The footage shows the officers approaching the front door and being greeted by a woman who explained that her son, Kiminski, was the reason for the calls and that he was armed with a knife. Before they could react, Kiminski lunged at the officers with the knife, stabbing Tarnow on the right side of his face.
Despite being injured, Tarnow and his partner, Officer Hunter Thomas, were able to wrestle Kiminski to the ground. It took several minutes and the arrival of additional officers before they were able to bring the situation under control. Tarnow was taken to a local hospital where he underwent surgery for his injuries, which included a deep cut to the side of his face. He is currently in stable condition. Thomas also suffered a minor head injury during the altercation but was treated and released the same evening.
Following the incident, Kiminski was charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and resisting arrest. He is currently in custody awaiting a future court date. Chief Richard D. Barber of the Galloway Township Police Department commented on the dangers that police officers face on a daily basis and expressed gratitude for Tarnow’s recovery. The department will continue to support Tarnow and his family throughout his recovery process.
The bodycam footage of the incident highlights the swift and dangerous nature of law enforcement work, as officers must constantly be prepared to respond to potentially life-threatening situations. The bravery and quick thinking of Tarnow, Thomas, and the additional officers who responded to the scene likely prevented further harm from occurring. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks that police officers face in the line of duty and the importance of providing support and resources to ensure their well-being.
The Galloway Township Police Department’s release of the footage demonstrates transparency and accountability in their handling of critical incidents. By sharing the video with the public, the department is able to provide insight into the challenging situations that officers encounter and the actions they take to protect themselves and the community. The footage serves as a valuable tool for training and learning from the incident to prevent similar situations in the future.
In conclusion, the incident involving Officer Tarnow being stabbed in the face underscores the dangers that law enforcement officers face on a daily basis. The bravery and quick response of Tarnow, Thomas, and their colleagues show the dedication and professionalism of police officers in protecting their communities. The Galloway Township Police Department’s commitment to supporting Officer Tarnow and his family, as well as holding the suspect accountable for his actions, demonstrates their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of their officers and the public.
