Off-Duty Corrections Officer Takes ‘Heroic’ Actions To Stop Potential Mass-Shooting

The citizens of New York are lauding one off-duty corrections officer as a hero in the wake of his choice to draw his service weapons and fire rounds at a pair of men that were also firing weapons toward a crowd that had gathered in Queens late Sunday evening as part of an outdoor memorial.

David Donegan, the heroic New York City Department of Corrections Officer, joined a crowd that was gathering up to watch an event in honor of the passing of a friend. While the memorial was moving forward, a pair of individuals brandished weapons and started to try and fire rounds into the crowd, read a release from the Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association as reported by FOXNY5.

“Thankfully, Officer Donegan, who was off duty at the time, immediately pulled out his weapon and engaged them, firing several shots,” stated the president of the Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association, Benny Boscio.

As a result of the shootout, Donegan was hit in the leg after managing to shoot one of the suspects in the torso, who police officials have stated was a 23-year-old male.

Reports from local media outlets stated that all three involved in the incident were hit with bullets. however, only Donegan and the 23-year-old suspects were taken to a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

As reported by NBC New York, the third victim allegedly was able to take themselves to the hospital.

“While the police investigation remains ongoing, one thing is crystal clear, had our officer not exercised his training and made a split-second decision, this incident could have cost many innocent people their lives, including his own,” explained Boscio. “His actions were nothing short of heroic.”

Eric Adams, the Mayor of New York City, also went on record with praise for Donegan and the actions he took late Sunday evening.

“He showed heroic actions tonight, and because of that I believe he saved the lives of other innocent people in this community,” stated Adams as part of a press conference held after the incident. “Taking proper action while off duty is one of the most difficult things to do.”

“He’s a hero.”

Adams took time to pay Donegan a visit while in the hospital after the incident.

He requested the public make sure to call 1-800-577-TIPS if they have any information at all that could end up helping police forces with the investigation that will bring the suspects to justice.

“In the meantime, we are praying for the officer’s speedy recovery,” stated Boscio.


Leave a Comment

Recommended Articles