William L. Carroll, Jr. was born on June 25, 1955 in New Brunswick, New Jersey and resided in that town all of his life. He attended St. Peter’s High School where he was very active in school sports. Prior to enlisting in the New Jersey State Police, he worked as a stone mason.

Trooper Carroll enlisted in the New Jersey State Police on January 26, 1979 as a member of the 94th Class. He served at various stations in Troops “B” and “C” and his last assignment was to the New Brunswick Station, Troop “D”. His service with the New Jersey State Police was characterized by loyalty, fearless performance of duty and faithful and energetic devotion to the high principals of the New Jersey State Police.

Trooper Carroll died from injuries received as the result of a motor vehicle accident while on duty.

On July 12, 1984, while on routine patrol, Trooper Carroll pulled-over a tractor trailer in South Brunswick at mile post 76.1 on the northbound section of the New Jersey Turnpike. After speaking to the driver, he returned to his troop car and was struck by a passing tractor-trailer. He suffered multiple extensive injuries and traumatic shock. He was taken to Middlesex General Hospital where he died later that evening.

Trooper Carroll served 5 years and 5 months with the New Jersey State Police. He was survived by his parents and his wife. He was 29 years old.