Four members of the Josephine County Sheriff's Office have been recognized for their courage during a violent incident at an Interstate 5 rest area that occurred last year.
Every year, the Oregon Peace Officers Association presents awards to law enforcement personnel and citizens who have performed exemplary deeds or services on behalf of their communities.
Josephine County Sheriff's Deputy Watson received the Life Saving with Valor Award while Medal of Valor Awards were received by Deputy Bayard, Sergeant Ricker and Undersheriff Snyder for their professional and courageous actions.
Members of the Oregon State Police received valor awards as well.
On Tuesday, September 20, 2022, Josephine County sheriff's deputies and state troopers responded to a call at the northbound Manzanita Rest Area. The situation was violent and turbulent, with citizens' lives being threatened along with the lives of responding law enforcement officers by a man armed with a pistol and semiautomatic rifle.
The male suspect had already shot a female twice before law enforcement arrived. The situation ended with an exchange of gunfire and the suspect succumbed to his injuries. The female victim received medical care by law enforcement and survived. No other citizens or police officers were physically harmed.
