Wildwood Police Department Mourns Sudden Death of 25-Year Veteran Officer

WILDWOOD — The Wildwood Police Department is mourning the sudden death of one of its longtime officers.

Patrolman Shawn Stimmel, Badge #365, died after a 25-year career with the Wildwood Police Department, according to the department.

“It is with extremely heavy hearts” that the department announced Stimmel's passing, describing him as a longtime member of the Wildwood community.

Stimmel began his career with the Wildwood Police Department in 2001 and served in a number of roles during his quarter-century with the agency, including the Patrol Division, Community Policing/Bike Unit and Field Training Unit.

He also served as a School Resource Officer for the Wildwood School District, giving him a particularly visible role in the community beyond his regular police duties.

The department's tribute remembered Stimmel not only for his service as a police officer, but also for his personality and sense of humor. Fellow officers described him as someone who brought laughter and positivity to those around him.

Stimmel was a lifelong resident of the Wildwoods and had deep ties to the local community. His family owned and operated Bill's Getty, and he worked at Schumann's Restaurant when he was younger.

His sudden death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from fellow law-enforcement agencies and members of the Wildwood community.

The Wildwood Police Department has asked the public to keep Stimmel's children, family, friends and fellow officers in their thoughts during this difficult time.

Details regarding funeral services have not yet been announced.

The circumstances and cause of Stimmel's death have not been publicly disclosed by the Wildwood Police Department.

South Jersey NewsBeat will update this story when additional information, including arrangements for services, becomes available.