NEW JERSEY – Laura Seals found solace in the Tunnel to Towers Foundation following the tragic loss of her husband, Detective Joseph Seals, who was fatally shot on duty during a confrontation in a Jersey City cemetery. The foundation, known for its commitment to assisting the families of fallen first responders, stepped in to provide crucial support to the Seals family in their time of need.

A Dedicated Officer Remembered

Detective Joseph Seals was not only a dedicated police officer but also a loving husband and father of five children. Known for his unwavering commitment to his work and his family, Detective Seals left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

According to Anthony Scally, who served alongside Detective Seals in the Jersey City Police Narcotics unit, Seals was known for his relentless work ethic. He never stopped. He was consistent, Scally recalls. Worked every day, tried to get an arrest every day. There was not a lazy bone about him.

Tragedy Strikes

On December 10, 2019, tragedy struck when Detective Seals was fatally shot during an altercation with two suspects in a cemetery while on patrol. The incident marked the beginning of a harrowing series of events, culminating in an attack on a Kosher grocery store in Jersey City, where three additional lives were lost before the suspects were killed by police.

The loss of Detective Seals was deeply felt by his colleagues and the community alike. Laura Seals, reflecting on the devastating impact of her husband’s passing, described the profound grief experienced by her family. It breaks you, she says.

A Beacon of Support

Amidst the darkness of their loss, Laura Seals found a beacon of hope in the form of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. The organization, dedicated to honoring the sacrifice of first responders, extended a lifeline to the Seals family by committing to pay off their mortgage, providing much-needed financial relief during a time of upheaval.

Frank Siller, Chairman, and CEO of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, made the announcement, stating, To the family of Detective Joseph Seals, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation is going to pay your mortgage so you never have to worry about your mortgage again.

Building a Community of Support

The assistance provided by the Tunnel to Towers Foundation went beyond financial support. Laura Seals emphasized the importance of the foundation’s ongoing presence and support throughout their journey of healing. They don’t just give you the home, she explains, but they offer their support, and they’re always there with you throughout your new journey.

In addition to receiving support from the foundation, Laura Seals embarked on a journey of resilience and remembrance. She founded The Seals 766 team, dedicated to honoring her husband’s legacy through participation in the annual Tower Climb. Alongside her son Ethan and colleagues of Detective Seals, Laura completed the challenging climb, symbolizing their unwavering commitment to keeping his memory alive.

Continuing the Mission

Anthony Scally, reflecting on the significance of participating in the Tower Climb, expressed his determination to continue supporting the Seals family and honoring Detective Seals’ memory. It’s like you’re doing it for him, his family. You’re not doing it for yourself, he says.

Laura Seals echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the profound impact of the annual climb in keeping her husband’s memory alive. That’s how I keep him with me, she reflects.

How to Support

For those looking to contribute to Laura’s Seals team and support the mission of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, donations can be made at nyctowerclimb.t2t.org. Additionally, NEWS.ORG 5 NY’s special Tower of Heroes report, featuring the inspiring journey of the Seals family, will air in its entirety on May 23 at 10:30 p.m.

Conclusion: Honoring a Hero’s Legacy

The story of Detective Joseph Seals and his family serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by first responders and their loved ones. Through the unwavering support of organizations like the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, communities come together to honor the legacy of fallen heroes and provide essential assistance to those left behind. As the Seals family continues their journey of healing and remembrance, their resilience and strength serve as a beacon of hope for all those touched by their story.

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