INDIANAPOLIS — February 27, 2022 is a day that forever changed the life of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Officer Thomas Mangan.
Mangan was shot in the neck while responding to a call in Fountain Square. After shots were fired, his partner, Officer Dan Majors and four other officers rushed to help their wounded colleague.
IMPD says less than five minutes after the gunfire ended, firefighters on IFD Engine 3 arrived at the scene. The four firefighters went into the scene, loaded Mangan into the fire engine and met an ambulance on the way to the hospital.
"There's family that is blood related; there's a really tight bond that's there. Family is also who God puts in your life and [who] are there for you. Out in the community you don't know who those people are until you say hi to them," Mangan said.
On Friday, Mangan was awarded the Purple Heart and Medal of Valor. Officer Majors was also awarded a Medal of Valor. The IFD firefighters each got a life-saving certificate.
PREVIOUS: 'It's about service' IMPD officer who was shot and critically injured in Feb. finds strength in his faith | 'It hasn't been easy': Injured IMPD officer, wife share health update and message of thanks
Mangan said the event brought tears to his eyes and he expressed his gratitude for those around him. The shooting damaged his Adam's apple and voice box and he has been working on speech exercises as his voice strengthens.
"I can also thank all of them in person and thank them personally since I haven't been able to thank them in the past when I couldn't speak," Mangan said.
Like she has been throughout Mangan's journey and recovery, his wife Emory Mangan joined him at the ceremony.
-
IndyGo buses keep on rolling despite several inches of snow
IndyGo decided to keep its regular schedule so that both those who did not want to drive and those who could not drive could access as much of the city as possible.Indianapolis tow truck drivers help those who are stranded after winter storm
Local tow truck drivers are helping Hoosiers who are stuck in the snow. They are urging residents to stay home if they don't need to be on the roads.Keeping pets safe amid freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall
It is against the law to leave animals outside when the temperature is at or below 20 degrees or if a wind chill warning has been issued.Officials offer tips on how to stay warm while warming centers open across Indy
The snow brought to Central Indiana over the past few days will ensure cold temps for the rest of the week. Here are tips on how to stay warm and information on warming centers.