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Congratulations to Officers Joel Rios and James Molina recipients of the City of Coral Gables “Silver Medal of Valor.”
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On Saturday, April 8, 2017, at approximately 12:55 hours, the listed police officers responded to calls for emergency assistance regarding an active shooter at the Equinox Gym, located at the Village of Merrick Park. These officers responded without delay, running towards the business as hundreds of people were running away. As other officers worked to perimeter the area, these police officers quickly coordinated a plan of action, while on the move, and tactically made entry into the business where there was believed to be at least one suspect actively engaged in shooting innocent people. Their devotion to duty, despite the very clear presence of great personal frontage of the business that provided no cover or concealment. Once inside they observed two victims of apparent gunshot wounds on the floor. Their immediate concern was not for themselves, but for other possible victims, as they could see people in fear for their lives cowering behind gym equipment and doing what they could to hide from the assailant. Their mission was clear, find and neutralize the shooter, doing whatever was necessary to prevent anyone else from being seriously injured or killed. These officers skillfully moved from room to room, each time they turned into or entered a room, not knowing if that was where the shooter was hiding in wait. They knew this process had to be swift and purposeful, as any delay could cost someone their life. Ultimately, the police officers located the shooter deceased in a locker room from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. These police officers acted selflessly, demonstrating extreme bravery and courage, and did so to keep others safe, while creating a safe working environment for Fire-Rescue personnel so they could make their way to the injured and provide emergency medical care. The actions of the officers were ...
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