Hudson County Sheriff’s Office Lt. and SWAT Commander Matt Vogel has died due to complications from COVID-19, authorities said.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Another officer taken too soon because of Covid 😔😔. The Hoboken PBA stands with the Hudson County Sheriffs Office as they morn [sic] the loss of Lt. Matthew Vogel,” the Hoboken Policemen’s Benevolent Association wrote on Instagram.
“Our prayers are with Lt. Vogel’s family, friends and colleagues.”
The Hoboken Police Department mourned the sudden loss of Police Det. Mario Novo just two weeks ago.
Vogel had been with the HCSO since September 1999 and had been a member of the North Bergen Volunteer First Aid Squad for about a decade prior to that, according to his LinkedIn page.
His was promoted to sergeant in April 2011 and then lieutenant in February 2017, serving as the SWAT team leader since June 2003.
“Our condolences to Lt. Matt Vogel’s family and his colleagues. Matt’s big smile and warm heart will be missed by all who knew him. Rest In Peace brother,” the Union City Police Department’s Instagram post says.
“Rest In Peace Commander. HUDSON COUNTY SHERIFFS SWAT,” wrote the HCSO.
Hudson County Sheriff Frank Schillari released a statement this evening recognizing Vogel’s service.
“Lieutenant Vogel served the people of Hudson County with great honor over the course of his distinguished career. I had the pleasure of working alongside him for 22 years and he will forever be an icon in our office. He always put the needs and safety of our community first, going back to 1990 when he became a member of the North Bergen EMS,” he said.
“He wore many hats, working as swat commander, a member of the accident reconstruction and investigation unit, heading the newly formed high water rescue team and he was in charge of our radio communications system. We will never forget the service of Lieutenant Vogel and his contributions to our office. He will be deeply missed by all that were lucky enough to have known him. His family is in all of our thoughts and prayers.”
Editor’s note: This story was updated with a statement from Hudson County Sheriff Frank Schillari.
