New Jersey Attorney General’s Office releases identities following fatal early-morning encounter in Lanoka Harbor
What We Know Right Now
55-year-old Susanne Clarke was fatally shot during a police encounter
The officer involved has been identified as Dallas Gant
The incident occurred March 16 around 2:44 a.m. on Hemlock Drive
Police were responding to a reported medical emergency (911 call)
A knife was recovered at the scene
The investigation is being handled by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office
Full Story
The New Jersey Attorney General’s Office of Public Integrity and Accountability has identified both the woman who was killed and the officer involved in a fatal police shooting earlier this week in the Lanoka Harbor section of Lacey Township.
Officials said Susanne Clarke, 55, of Lacey Township, died during the encounter. The officer who discharged his weapon was identified as Lacey Township Police Officer Dallas Gant.
According to a preliminary investigation, township police were dispatched to a home on Hemlock Drive near Birch Road shortly after 2 a.m. on March 16 following a 911 call reporting a medical emergency.
Authorities said officers encountered Clarke outside the residence at approximately 2:44 a.m. During that interaction, Officer Gant fired his service weapon, striking her.
Clarke was pronounced dead at the scene at 3:24 a.m.
Scene Details and Evidence
Investigators confirmed that a knife was recovered outside the home where the encounter occurred.
Officials have not released further details regarding the moments leading up to the shooting, including what prompted the use of deadly force.
One Lacey Township police officer was transported to a local hospital with a non-life-threatening injury, according to Police Chief Paul Sullivan Jr., who issued a public statement on the day of the incident. No other officers were reported injured.
State Investigation Underway
The investigation is being led by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, which is required by law to oversee all cases involving deaths that occur during encounters with law enforcement officers acting in their official capacity.
Authorities said the investigation remains active, and no additional details have been released at this time.
Under New Jersey law, once the investigation is complete, the findings must be presented to a grand jury. The grand jury will then determine whether the evidence supports a criminal indictment against any officer involved.
Officer Background
Officer Dallas Gant has been a member of the Lacey Township Police Department since October 2019, according to officials.
No further details about his service record or prior incidents have been released.
Remembering Susanne Clarke
According to her obituary, Susanne Clarke was remembered as a loving mother, devoted daughter, and cherished friend.
Family and loved ones described her as a vibrant presence whose impact was felt by all who knew her.
Community Impact
The incident has drawn attention across Ocean County, particularly in Lacey Township, where residents are seeking answers about what led to the fatal encounter.
Fatal police-involved shootings are rare in the area, and cases like this often prompt both community concern and calls for transparency as investigations unfold.
Officials have not indicated when additional information may be released.
What Happens Next
As the investigation continues, key steps will include:
Review of body camera footage (if available)
Forensic analysis of the scene
Interviews with officers and witnesses
Evaluation of use-of-force procedures
The case will ultimately be reviewed by a grand jury.
The Bigger Picture
Incidents involving police use of deadly force—particularly during responses to medical or welfare calls—often raise complex questions about training, response protocols, and public safety.
As the Attorney General’s Office continues its investigation, the focus will remain on establishing a clear and complete account of what occurred.
Updates
This is a developing story. Ocean County Press will provide updates as additional verified information becomes available.