Basking Ridge Community Mourns Sudden Loss Of Deputy Chief

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — The Basking Ridge emergency responder community is mourning the untimely and sudden loss of Deputy Chief Bernais "Mac" McNeil.

McNeil served the Public Safety Service for more than 15 years in Bernards Township and leaves behind his wife, Mia McNeil and four children, Tammy, Alexis, Ryan and Emily.

"The loss of Chief McNeil will leave an inexplicably large hole in the Public Safety Service. He was an advocate for progression and a well-respected leader, according to Lyons Fire Department. "Mac had an extraordinary personality and was a trusted friend and teacher to many. He always knew how to be there to help or to simply put a smile on your face. He will be eternally missed."

An Army veteran, McNeil started his law enforcement career with the Rutgers University Police Department before transferring to the federal side and joining the Veterans Affairs Police.

McNeil quickly rose through the ranks from sergeant to lieutenant to captain before becoming deputy chief of police in 2014.

Once the Public Safety Service was created, McNeil became its deputy chief where he oversaw the VA Police, the Lyons VA Fire Department and the VA Safety Section.

He obtained his Master of Public Administration in 2012 from Centenary University and was also an adjunct professor at Rutgers University in the Sociology Department.

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