In the Allen city council chambers on Tuesday, leaders felt compelled to acknowledge the heroes who responded to the city’s worst tragedy on its first anniversary.
Mayor Baine Brooks made a point to recognize the brave men and women who, without seeking acknowledgment, put their lives on the line to respond to the events at the Allen Premium Outlets on May 6, 2023.
While only a small group gathered for the moment of recognition during the city council meeting, it represented the hundreds of law enforcement officers, firefighters, and EMTs who acted swiftly during the crisis.
Among them was an officer who happened to be at the mall on an unrelated call and courageously took down the gunman responsible for the tragic events, ultimately saving lives.
Others worked tirelessly to secure the scene, provide medical assistance, and conduct thorough investigations to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Allen Fire Chief Jonathan Boyd, who was among those present that day, emphasized that the past year has been dedicated to supporting the responders and analyzing the response to identify areas of strength and improvement.
Chief Boyd highlighted the community’s resilience and unity in the face of adversity, noting that the recognition also underscores the city’s ongoing commitment to providing resources and support for its departments.
Chief Steve Dye echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and preparedness to ensure the safety of the community in the event of future emergencies.
