Scott M. Gonzalez was born on March 29, 1962 in Passaic, New Jersey and he resided in Hampton, Hunterdon County. Prior to enlisting in the New Jersey State Police he was a police officer with the Plainfield, New Jersey Police Department.

Trooper Gonzalez enlisted in the New Jersey State Police on January 15, 1993 as a member of the 113th Class and was stationed at Troop “B” Hope at the time of his death. His service with the New Jersey State Police was characterized by loyalty, fearless performance of duty and faithful and energetic devotion to the high principles of the New Jersey State Police.

Trooper Gonzalez died as a result of gunshot wounds suffered while in the performance of duty.

At approximately 4:28 pm on Friday, October 24, 1997, Trooper Gonzalez was in pursuit of a burglary suspect and cornered him at a dead-end road. As the suspect reached the dead end, he turned his vehicle around and headed towards the troop car, ramming him head-on. He then hopped out of his pick-up truck and fired at Trooper Gonzalez with a shot-gun, inflicting several wounds. Trooper Gonzalez was pronounced dead at the scene.

Trooper Gonzalez served 4 years and 9 months with the New Jersey State Police.

He is survived by his wife, his mother, a sister and two brothers. Trooper Gonzalez was 35 years old.