Galloway Township, New Jersey – A man is currently behind bars after assaulting two Galloway Township police officers who were responding to a 911 hangup call on Sunday night. The incident took a dangerous turn when Keith Kiminsky, 30, emerged from the residence and charged at Officer Erik Tarnow, moments after his mother disclosed that he was armed with a knife, as seen in police-released footage.
Officer Tarnow, in an attempt to halt Kiminsky’s advance, was unfortunately stabbed on the side of his face, leading to a significant injury that required hospitalization. The altercation escalated as Officer Hunter Thomas joined in the struggle, ultimately subduing Kiminsky with the help of additional backup officers who arrived at the scene.
Both officers were transported to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center’s City Campus for treatment, where Tarnow underwent surgery for his wounds. Thankfully, he has since been discharged and is now recovering at home. Thomas, on the other hand, received treatment for a minor head injury and has been released.
The 911 hangup calls that prompted the officers’ visit originated from the home on the 300 block of Cresson Avenue. Kiminsky, who has no prior criminal record, now faces multiple charges including attempted murder, aggravated assault, possessing a weapon for unlawful purposes, and resisting arrest. He remains in custody at the Atlantic County Justice Facility pending his initial court appearance.
Police Chief Richard Barber expressed gratitude for the swift actions of the officers and extended thanks to the supporting agencies involved in handling the situation. The Galloway Township Police Department also acknowledged the professional care provided by AtlantiCare staff in treating the injured officers.
In response to the incident, resources are being mobilized to support the affected officers, their families, and the police department in coping with the aftermath. The New Jersey Resiliency Program for Law Enforcement offers a supportive environment for officers to address the unique stresses of their profession, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being alongside physical safety.
As the community rallies around the injured officers, officials stress the need to prevent and combat domestic violence, recognizing the inherent risks of such situations for law enforcement personnel. To further support those impacted by domestic violence, a 24/7 helpline is available for immediate assistance. In cases where firearms are involved, individuals are encouraged to seek guidance on Extreme Risk Protective Orders to ensure safety in crisis situations.