The Warrior in Blue: He Lived on Borrowed Time, by Choice

The Phillipsburg Police Department announces the passing of a true warrior, Detective Sergeant Brett Marino. At just 13 years a veteran, Brett was more than an officer; he was a legend of resilience. When doctors gave him a devastating six-month prognosis following a grim diagnosis of cancer, Brett Marino refused to surrender to the deadline. Instead, he chose to fight, demonstrating a heroic, unwavering determination that allowed him to survive and inspire for nearly two years. His defiance of the odds was a testament to the powerful spirit he brought to every aspect of his life. This heartbreaking loss leaves a deep void in our community, but the story of his courageous battle will forever be etched in the heart of Phillipsburg as a testament to the strength of the human will.

Beyond the Badge: The Friend and Mentor We Lost

Detective Sergeant Marino’s professional commitment in the Special Operations Division, where he investigated dangerous narcotics and street crime, was marked by steady resolve and a commitment to justice that never wavered. But to those who worked alongside him, he was much more than his title. His colleagues describe him as everyone’s “best friend”—a man known for his iconic humor, his unyielding optimism, and the ability to be the steady voice of reason when chaos loomed. He was the light that brightened the often-dark rooms of police work. As we mourn the officer, we also mourn the extraordinary man: the husband, the father of four children, the brother, and the best friend who made every room brighter just by being in it. His personal courage in the face of death mirrored the bravery he displayed every day on the streets.

A Legacy of Love: Supporting the Marino Family

The passing of Detective Sergeant Brett Marino leaves behind a family grappling with immense grief: a devoted wife and four young children who will now navigate life without their hero. The courage Brett showed while battling his illness—fighting past a terminal diagnosis to spend more time with them—is the ultimate display of love. The Phillipsburg Police Department and the wider community now have a duty to stand with the Marino family as they begin to process this unimaginable loss. We ask that every resident join us in keeping his wife, children, and entire family in your thoughts and prayers. We honor Brett’s memory not just by recognizing his service, but by ensuring that his loved ones feel the full embrace of the community he so bravely protected until his last, courageous breath.