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.
-
23-year-old woman killed in shooting on Indy’s west side
Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers responded to the 2600 block of South Lynhurst Drive on reports of a person shot just after 9 p.m.IMPD, students make friendship bracelets ahead of Taylor Swift show
On Wednesday, IMPD officers visited Cathedral High School. Together they sat down and made friendship bracelets ahead of the highly anticipated Taylor Swift concerts.Youth football coach speaks out after being shot at a game
Trevon Smith was shot twice as chaos broke out after an early October playoff game at Cardinal Ritter High School.Carmel's State of the City address will cost you $20 per ticket
Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam is commemorating the end of her first year in office by talking about the city's accomplishments. However, you will have to find cash or a card if you want to listen.