The investigation into Patrolman Mike McCaffrey's 2017 death initially concluded as suicide. However, forensic analysis conducted in 2023 directly contradicted this finding.
Key Findings & Developments
- Forensic Evidence: A new autopsy determined McCaffrey suffered two gunshot wounds, one to the head and one to the chest. This pattern is forensically inconsistent with self-infliction.
- Overturned Suicide Ruling: Based on this evidence, the original suicide ruling by the Middlesex County Medical Examiner was officially rescinded in February 2023. The manner of death was changed to "undetermined".
- Homicide Investigation: The case is now being actively investigated as a potential homicide by the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office.
- Official Misconduct Concerns: The investigation uncovered serious professional misconduct related to the handling of the initial case. Two Woodbridge Police Department officials (Director Robert Hubner and Capt. Scott Kuzma) and former Chief James Connelly faced criminal indictments in 2023.
- Administrative Charges: Former Woodbridge Police Chief Joseph H. Bianca Jr., retired Deputy Chief Arthur Coppola, Lt. Michael Pontoriero, and Lt. Richard F. Pierson also face pending administrative misconduct charges concerning the initial investigation.
- Pending Criminal Cases: The criminal cases against Hubner, Kuzma, and Connelly are ongoing as of the latest public information. The homicide investigation into McCaffrey's death remains open.
The shocking result is the clear rejection of the suicide theory due to irrefutable physical evidence, exposing significant failures in the original investigation and triggering multiple ongoing legal and administrative proceedings.