Clark, New Jersey Development News

Clark to Honor Fallen Officer William J. Wat with Memorial Service on July 4th

The fourth ward councilman of Clark, Brian Tull, is inviting the community to a memorial service on July 4th, 2026, to honor Patrolman William J. Wat. Patrolman Wat was killed in the line of duty on July 4th, 1971, 55 years prior, when responding to a robbery in progress at the old Howard Johnson's motor lodge. He and his partner, Richie Reer, pursued a suspect into a wooded area near the Garden State Parkway, where the suspect opened fire, striking Wat. Wat succumbed to his injuries at Roy Hospital. The service will be held at 10:30 a.m. in front of the monument, organized by Clark PBA 125, with prayers and a memorial to Patrolman Wat and his family. The councilman emphasized the importance of remembering fallen heroes and supporting first responders. He highlighted Wat's background as a Clark native, a graduate of Clark High School, and a U.S. Marine veteran who served in Vietnam before joining the Clark Police Department.