Chadd W. Lackey, Executive Director of State Commission of Investigation, dies in Route 130 Collision

Chadd W. Lackey, executive director of the State Commission of Investigation (SCI) and resident of Voorhees, tragically lost his life in a fatal accident on Route 130 early Wednesday morning. The incident occurred around 6:00 a.m. when a 2020 Honda Accord, driven by a 51-year-old female from Bordentown, was traveling southbound on Route 130 near Klockner Road. As she entered the intersection, the Accord collided with a 2020 Ford Edge SUV driven by Lackey, with a 44-year-old female from Hamilton as a passenger. The SUV was traveling eastbound from Klockner Road at the time of the collision.

Witnesses took to social media to describe the severe damage sustained by both vehicles. The Hamilton Police Division (HPD) responded swiftly, and all three individuals involved were transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center. Tragically, Lackey succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy expressed their condolences, highlighting Lackey’s significant contributions as SCI’s executive director. Governor Murphy emphasized Lackey’s groundbreaking work in tackling organized crime, opioid abuse, corruption, and other critical issues, underscoring his role in making New Jersey safer and more just.

Tiffany Williams Brewer, SCI Chair, echoed sentiments of grief and sympathy on behalf of the Commissioners and SCI staff, emphasizing the profound loss felt by the organization and the broader law enforcement community. Robert Burzichelli, SCI Commissioner, also paid tribute to Lackey’s leadership and impact, citing his instrumental role in overseeing major investigations that exposed wrongdoing and protected taxpayer dollars.

Lackey’s career was marked by dedication and achievement. He ascended through the ranks at SCI, previously serving as Deputy Director/General Counsel and investigative counsel. His leadership was pivotal in several high-profile investigations, including a landmark inquiry into prescription pill abuse and its connection to a growing heroin epidemic.

Before joining SCI, Lackey served as an Assistant State Attorney in Miami-Dade County, Florida, where he founded and managed the Community Prosecutions Unit. He held academic credentials from Northwood University and Temple University School of Law, reflecting his commitment to legal excellence and public service.

The Rotary Club of Robbinsville Hamilton also expressed their condolences, recalling Lackey’s engagements with the club, including a presentation in September 2022 on SCI’s investigation into the Pagans motorcycle gang. Lackey’s insights underscored the gang’s expansion strategies and the broader implications for regional law enforcement efforts.

Hamilton Police Division’s preliminary investigation suggests that the Bordentown woman driving the Honda Accord failed to stop at a red light while traveling southbound on Route 130, leading to the collision with Lackey’s SUV. As of the latest update, HPD has not disclosed additional information regarding the health status of the SUV passenger or the Accord driver. The investigation into the accident continues, with authorities focusing on determining the precise circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.

The State Commission of Investigation, under Lackey’s leadership, remains a critical watchdog agency in New Jersey. Established in 1968, SCI’s mandate includes investigating organized crime, corruption, misuse of public funds, and other breaches of public trust. Lackey’s tenure at SCI underscored his commitment to upholding integrity and accountability in government and public service.

Chadd W. Lackey’s untimely passing has left a profound void in the law enforcement community and beyond. His legacy of service, dedication, and impactful leadership will be remembered by colleagues, friends, and the community he served with distinction.