Passaic County Sheriff dies from self-inflicted gunshot at restaurant
NEW JERSEY - Passaic County Sheriff Richard Berdnik died of a self-inflicted gunshot Tuesday at a restaurant in Clifton.
According to reports, Berdnik died inside Toros, a Turkish restaurant located on Hazel Street.
Berdnik has been sheriff of the county since 2011, and was re-elected in 2022.
SkyFOX flew over the scene where there was a large police presence.
"I am deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of Passaic County Sheriff Richard Berdnik," Governor Phil Murphy said in a statement. "Tammy and I were blessed to have counted Sheriff Berdnik as a close friend. We will miss him — and his leadership — dearly. And we are sending our prayers and condolences to Sheriff Berdnik’s wife, Monica, their four adult children, and the entire team at the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office."
This is a developing story. Stay with FOX 5 NY for more information.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, help is available. Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org