TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Sheriff’s Office is mourning the loss of one of their own, who died facing the fight of his life.
Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Detective Corporal Phil Sickinger passed away on January 22 after a long battle with ALS.
“Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer and everyone at the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and fellow Officers of our friend and brother,” the Prosecutor’s Office said in a statement.
Sickinger was diagnosed in January 2020 with ALS. At that time, he was also found to be suffering from Lyme disease and mold toxicity and was diagnosed after feeling extremely weak.
Soon after his diagnoses, Sickinger’s symptoms began to change, causing his physical abilities to become limited. He had difficulty using his arms, writing and typing.
The officer was supported by his loving wife Diana and their two daughters, along with members of the Sheriff’s Department and community. Sickinger had a special power chair to help him be more mobile and independent, and received a wheelchair accessible van to travel to doctors’ appointments. Additionally, the Sickinger home was adapted to allow him to navigate around the house better.
A GoFundMe page was created in 2020 for Detective Sickinger with all funds used to assist him and his family. Even with the recent news of his passing, members of the community continue to make donations during this difficult time.
Sickinger was a 19-year veteran of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office and was a member of the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team for 15 years.
“He will most certainly be missed. Please keep the Sickinger family in your thoughts and prayers today,” the Prosecutor’s Office wrote.
