(City of Pond Creek Police Department, OK)
On September 13, 2015, Chief Timothy Barwick and other Grant County officers responded to a call regarding a person who was outside a residence and acting erratically. The residents called to report that an individual whom they did not know was knocking on their door and claiming that there were people in the bushes trying to hurt him.
After arriving on the scene, both Chief Barwick and a City of Medford officer entered the porch area where the subject was standing. As the Medford officer attempted to advance toward and subdue the subject, the subject drew a concealed weapon and began firing at the officer.
Immediately, Chief Barwick left his position of cover and advanced under the direct line of fire of the subject in an attempt to render aid to his fellow officer. Before reaching the officer, Chief Barwick was struck by the subject’s gunfire, and sustained life-threatening wounds to his hand and abdomen.
The subject was subsequently engaged by other officers who had arrived on the scene and was fatally wounded during the ensuing firefight. Chief Barwick has since undergone several surgeries, lost a leg, and will need to undergo more surgery at a later date. He is now recovering in a rehabilitation facility.
The actions of Chief Barwick demonstrate extraordinary bravery and a willingness to save the lives of others, without regard to his own personal safety.
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