SKY Valor honors North Central Florida's heroes

SKY Valor Honors program annually salutes this area’s fire-rescue, police and first-responding personnel for their dedication to protect our families, neighbors and communities. We are proud to recognize acts of heroism, kindness and bravery in the past year, highlighting individuals that go above and beyond the call of duty. Listen for each story weekday mornings on the Bob Rose Show at 8:35 a.m.

Saluting Sgt. Esau Bright, Deputy Jason Upshaw and Deputy Robert Cortes Rodriguez with the Alachua County Sheriff's Office 

Why is this team being honored?

In the late-night hours of Monday, June 16th, the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Combined Communications Center received multiple calls reporting a small truck traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of US Highway 301.  The vehicle was already involved in a crash, and was driving in the wrong-direction toward other motorists.

Deputy Upshaw located the vehicle, where it continued traveling the wrong-way.  Upshaw positioned his patrol car in the middle of the highway with emergency lights activated.  The truck rammed the driver’s side of Upshaw’s vehicle, then continued recklessly southbound, posing a grave threat to others on the road.

Realizing the urgent need to prevent a head-on collision, Sgt. Bright positioned his patrol vehicle directly in the truck’s path. The truck collided with Bright’s vehicle, effectively bringing it to a stop.

With deputies rushing to the crash, the truck caught fire.  Realizing the driver was still inside, Bright, Upshaw and Cortes-Rodriquez rushed to the burning vehicle and pulled the driver to safety, before it became fully engulfed in flames.

An investigation later revealed that the driver was experiencing a significant medical emergency, which contributed to the erratic driving. The subject was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

For their extraordinary courage, placing themselves in personal danger to save other motorists, the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Sgt. Esau Bright, Deputy Jason Upshaw and Deputy Robert Cortes Rodriguez as Valor Honorees.

Saluting Brittany McKay and Officer Khaliff Gamble with the Gainesville Police Department

Why is this team being honored?

Last year, an early morning shooting in Suburban Heights. A man shot his boss, and fled in a company pickup. The vehicle was seen by Officer Gamble close by, who confirmed it was the suspect, and attempted to make a traffic stop. A high speed chase ensued, with multiple agencies including Alachua County Sheriff’s deputies and Columbia County. The pursuit went from Gainesville north, for over a half hour, at speeds exceeding 120 miles per hour, finally ending near Lake City.

For their fast action and determination in the capture of this armed killer, Gainesville Police and 97.3 The Sky are proud to salute Officers Brittany McKay and Khaliff Gamble.

Saluting Tracy Deluca, Katie Rogers, Dmitry Nirenberg, Sgt Jaron Griffin and Sgt Joseph Castor with the Gainesville Police Department

Why is this team being honored?

Last September, Tracy Deluca and Katie Rogers heard sounds of discomfort coming from a co-worker's office. They found the man experiencing a medical emergency.

They jumped into action. Deluca called 9-1-1 as Rogers quickly sought help from Sgt. Griffin and Sgt. Castor. Both Sergeants accessed the situation and provided immediate assistance. Castor determined this was a high level of emergency, and radioed EMTs for a critical response.

Castor then assisted the patient to a more comfortable position away from his desk. Sgt. Griffin began important notifications to the co-worker’s next-of-kin, on what was occurring and the next steps. Nirenberg provided additional comfort to his friend, while helping inform EMTs.

The patient was transported to the hospital, and sadly passed. The heroic efforts done by all involved provided the patient additional time for him to fight, be with his family, and say his final good byes.

For their swift action in a dire emergency, compassion and professionalism, Gainesville Police and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Tracy Deluca, Katie Rogers, Dmitry Nirenberg, Sgt Jaron Griffin and Sgt Joseph Castor as SKY Valor honorees.

Corporal Trinton Lovell with the Bradford County Sheriff’s Office

Lovell has been a dedicated member of the Bradford County Sheriff’s Office for 4 years, assigned to the Patrol and Community Affairs Division.

Why is Corporal Lovell being honored?

On May 18th, Lovell responded to an Urgent medical call for service. A male individual was choking at a residence. Upon arrival, Lovell found the man unconscious and unresponsive.

Lovell began CPR, and continued for several minutes. Bradford County Fire Rescue arrived, and delivered a shock in an attempt to resuscitate the individual. While continuing CPR, a witness then said that the patient had choked while eating dinner.

A pulse was obtained following these life saving measures. But after five minutes, the pulse was again lost. More emergency efforts continued, and a pulse was obtained for a second time. The individual was then transported to a hospital. After treatments, the man ultimately survived, was released, and has made a full recovery.

For his fast action and live-saving professionalism, the Bradford County Sheriff’s Office and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Corporal Trinton Lovell.

Firefighter-Paramedic Alyssa Hardin and Firefighter-EMT Dominic Morales with Alachua County Fire Rescue 

Hardin is a 7 year veteran of Alachua County, Morales has 1-1/2 years of service ACFR

Why are Hardin and Morales being honored?

On March 15th, multiple units from Alachua County and Gainesville Fire Rescue responded to a serious traffic accident, involving a passenger vehicle and a motorcycle.

Hardin and Morales with ACFR Rescue 81 were first on-scene, and found the motorcycle rider with life-threatening injuries. Hardin issued a Trauma Alert to UF Health Hospital, while she and other members worked to quickly stabilize and prepare the female patient for transport.

While enroute to the hospital, Hardin and Morales were addressing her multiple injuries. But her condition deteriorated further, into a cardiac arrest. The crew worked tirelessly, able to successfully resuscitate the patient before arriving at the Emergency Department.

Traumatic cardiac arrests are very difficult to resuscitate, and because of the exceptional judgement and performance exhibited by this crew, this woman survived that day. After multiple subsequent surgeries, she is now doing well, even planning on a reunion with this crew later this month.

For their extraordinary skill and professionalism, Alachua County Fire Rescue and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Firefighter-Paramedic Alyssa Hardin and Firefighter-EMT Dominic Morales.

Sergeant Shelley Postle and Corporal Robert Rogers with the Gainesville Police Department

Rogers and Postle are long-serving and respected law officers serving GPD.

Why are these two being recognized?

Rogers and Postle exemplify leaders committed to excellence, helping to solidify the backbone of this large law enforcement agency.

Cpl. Robert Rogers is a supervisor with sharp decision-making skills, taking a deep interest in the training and organization of GPD’s Field Service Technician Program. Rogers is heavily involved in narcotic details, experienced in researching cases, documentation of facts, and has had extraordinary success producing arrests that make a major difference in fighting drug crimes in the City. Rogers is a recognized high performer that is an example to others within the department.

Sgt. Shelley Postle serves in a newly established position as Community Engagement leader within GPD. She oversees a team conducting law enforcement outreach efforts, fostering relationships with community leaders to address important issues within neighborhoods, helping prevent and reduce crime. Postle also supervises a GPD Co-Responder team, bringing together approximately 20 representatives from diverse mental health organizations to improve mental health services. This helps patrol officers in areas such as juvenile Baker Acts, and many complex mental health issues they face.

For their leadership and professionalism, helping make Gainesville Police Department officers and community outreach more effective, 97.3 The SKY is proud to salute the Valor of Cpl. Robert Rogers and Sgt. Shelly Postle as SKY Valor honorees.

Lieutenant Cody Murphy with Marion County Fire Rescue

Murphy began his career with Marion County Fire Rescue in 2014, completed Paramedic School, was later promoted to Lieutenant, and now is stationed at Marion County Fire Rescue’s busiest location, Friendship Fire Station #21, serving On Top of the World and the State Road 200 corridor.

Why is Lieutenant Murphy being honored?

On December 11th, Fire Rescue received an emergency call to a head-on vehicle collision on North Highway 27. Both vehicles were fully engulfed in flames, with occupants trapped inside. What dispatchers did not initially know was that one of the department's own, Lieutenant Murphy, was among those involved in the crash.

While returning home from personal errands in his own vehicle, Murphy became an unexpected victim of this collision. Despite sustaining injuries from the impact, he managed to self-extricate from his burning vehicle.

Without hesitation and in complete disregard for his own condition, Murphy immediately turned his attention to the other driver. A young woman was trapped as flames rapidly advanced.

Drawing on his extensive training and experience, Murphy acted decisively. He pulled the woman from the wreckage, moments before her vehicle was fully consumed by fire. Once safely removed from immediate danger, Murphy began a rapid trauma assessment and rendered critical emergency care.

Fire Units and Paramedics arrived moments later, declared a trauma alert, and transported the woman to a local hospital. Personnel extinguished the fires and ensured scene safety. Murphy was also medically evaluated and later sought treatment for his own injuries.

His extraordinary bravery and composure under pressure, while injured, exemplify the highest ideals of the fire service.

For his courageous life-saving action in the face of extreme danger, Marion County Fire Rescue and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Lieutenant Cody Murphy as a SKY Valor honoree.

Sergeant Michael McFarland and Trooper Brett Pittman with the Florida Highway Patrol Lake City District

McFarland began his career in Gainesville after graduating from the FHP Academy in 2012, and has advanced to the rank of Sergeant in Columbia County.

Pittman graduated in 2018, assigned to Alachua County. In 2020 he transferred to Lake City, and is a member of the FHP Quick Response Team.

Why are McFarland and Pittman being honored?

February 7th, they were involved in the pursuit of an armed murder suspect from Gadsden County. McFarland and Pittman located the dangerous man’s vehicle on I-10 in Suwannee County, pursuing him into Madison County.  During the chase, the suspect fired shots at the Troopers. He even fled into oncoming traffic, travelling the wrong-way, eastbound in the westbound lanes of I-10. The pursuit ended when the suspect crashed into a ditch on US Highway 90 just west of Live Oak.

The man then took off on foot, and shot and injured a Suwannee County Deputy. The suspect finally was located by Live Oak Police, who engaged the armed murderer, and eliminated the threat.

McFarland and Pittman faced extreme peril, helping locate a dangerous killer, facing gunfire, while preventing him from imperiling other citizens during the multi-county interstate pursuit.

For their extraordinary heroism and selflessness, Florida Highway Patrol’s Lake City District and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Sergeant Michael McFarland and Trooper Brett Pittman.

Officer Sarah Reeves with the Gainesville Police Department and Clinician Allison Lawrence with Meridian Healthcare

Officer Reeves is a member of GPD’s Co-Responder Team, and works side by side with Meridian Clinician Allison Lawrence to tackle incidents requiring special mental health considerations.

Why are Reeves and Lawrence being honored?

Recently Officer Reeves became aware of a person who was making alarming statements and exhibiting bizarre behaviors, threatening targeted violence. The adult male suspect resided in Alachua County, and attended school in the City of Gainesville. Reeves and Clinician Lawrence worked with the School Board, and other law enforcement agencies, and were granted a Risk Protection Order. A few months later, Reeves became aware of another incident and worked with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to search the suspect’s social media. Concerning posts were made regarding firearms.

Reeves then served a search warrant on the suspect’s residence, and located several firearms and ammunition hidden in a wall compartment. Lawrence worked with the subject's mother, and earned her trust, which provided invaluable assistance. Reeves additionally reached out to the State Attorney's Office to recommend mental health related treatment, while advising of the totality of the serious threats.

Reeves is an officer on patrol. Usually her duties end when a call-for-service ends or there is a person arrested. However, she went beyond conducting normal case management to work closely with other stakeholders. Reeves and Lawrence may have prevented a serious, targeted, violent attack.

For their dedication and professionalism, the Gainesville Police Department and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Officer Officer Sarah Reeves and Meridian Healthcare Clinician Allison Lawrence as Valor Honorees.

Saluting Officer Tyrone Ellis and Corporal Michael Logan Mosher with the Gainesville Police Department

Why are these GPD officers being honored?

Demonstrating outstanding teamwork and quick decision-making, Mosher and Ellis kept Gainesville High School safe with the arrest of a student with a firearm.

They worked closely with detectives, utilizing crucial intelligence to intercept a dangerous situation before it escalated. The suspect, a student, arrived on campus with a loaded 9mm handgun in his backpack. When confronted, the suspect attempted to flee. Mosher and Ellis responded swiftly and decisively in a high-pressure, crowded campus. After a brief foot chase, they apprehended the suspect, retrieved the firearm, and ensured the immediate threat was neutralized without injury to anyone involved.

For their heroic fast-action and professionalism preventing a dangerous threat to a school’s students and staff, the Gainesville Police Department and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Corporal Michael Logan Mosher and Officer Tyrone Ellis as SKY Valor honorees.

Critical Care Paramedic Stephen Cabrera with Marion County Fire Rescue 

Cabrera began his career with Marion County in June 2005 as a Firefighter EMT. He completed Paramedic school, then Critical Care Paramedic training, and advanced through ranks to now serve on Marion County’s Critical Care team.

Why is Paramedic Cabrera being honored?

On the morning of December 30th at approximately 7:10, Marion County Fire Rescue units were dispatched to a motor vehicle collision on I-75 near the Belleview exit. A sedan had veered off the roadway, struck a tree, and erupted into flames, with the driver trapped inside - prompting multiple 911 calls from concerned motorists.

Cabrera was off-duty, when he came upon the scene, before units arrived. He immediately took action. A bystander shattered the car’s window. Cabrera opened the door of the burning vehicle, cut through airbags and seatbelt, and removed the unconscious driver. He carried the victim to safety, away from the encroaching flames, and administered emergency medical care, until crews from Marion Oaks arrived.

Within 12 minutes of the crash, Cabrera had removed the patient, crews had extinguished the fire, paramedics were conducting advanced life support, and transporting the patient to a local hospital as a trauma alert.

Cabrera’s courageous and selfless actions directly contributed to saving a life. His ability to respond with clarity, speed, and skill, while off duty and without protective gear, reflects the highest standards of the fire rescue profession.

For his extraordinary heroism, Marion County Fire Rescue and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Critical Care Paramedic Stephen Cabrera as a SKY Valor Honoree.

Officer Jacob Eady with the City of Alachua Police Department

Eady began his law enforcement career with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office as a Corrections Officer. He was later promoted to a Road Deputy. Over the course of his 16-year tenure with the Sheriff’s Office, Eady served as a Special Victims’ Unit Detective. He joined the City of Alachua Police Department in July 2022, soon transitioning to the Criminal Investigations Division.

Why is Detective Eady being honored?

In December 2022, multiple individuals were involved in a drug-involved shooting, resulting in a murder. Eady’s thorough investigation led to the arrest…and this year the conviction of a suspect, who was sentenced to life in prison. Eady continued to work this case from beginning to end.

Concurrent to the 2-and-a-half-year time period, Eady has participated in over 100 Internet Crimes Against Children investigations. These cases, while often receiving little public recognition, are emotionally demanding and require immense dedication and resilience from investigators. Detective Eady has consistently demonstrated professionalism and commitment in managing these challenging cases.

For his consistent professionalism and commitment to making a difference, the City of Alachua Police Department and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute the dedication of Detective Jacob Eady as a SKY Valor honoree.

Officer Parker Morley from the Ocala Police Department’s Community Policing Bureau

Morley was recently hired as a Law Enforcement Recruit in May 2024 and was sworn-in as a police officer in December 2024.

Why is Officer Morley being honored?

On May 8, 2025, Officer Morley showed exceptional courage and exemplary judgment during a dangerous response to a bank robbery at TD Bank, on SE 17th Street in Ocala. The incident began when an armed suspect entered the bank, demanded money, and fled the scene. Acting on critical information, Morley quickly located the suspect's vehicle on East Fort King Street. He initiated a traffic stop, but the suspect refused to comply, leading to a high-speed pursuit.

With calm composure, Morley coordinated with dispatch and fellow officers to handle the pursuit effectively. The chase concluded when the suspect’s truck overturned into a retention pond on SE 38th Street, near the Southern Pig and Cattle BBQ restaurant during the lunch hour.

The suspect then leaped from the truck, and took off on foot. The situation escalated, requiring Morley to use potentially deadly force to neutralize the threat. At first he incapacitated the suspect with a non-fatal wound to the arm. In the face of danger, Morley ensured the apprehension of the suspect without further harm to the community, other officers, or himself.

Just days earlier, Officer Morley also demonstrated exceptional police work during another bank robbery incident that occurred at the same bank. While on patrol, he identified the suspect's vehicle on the roadway, carried out a felony traffic stop, and apprehended that individual…without incident.

For his vigilance, professionalism and dedication, the Ocala Police Department and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Officer Parker Morley as a Valor Honoree.

Sgt. John Dyle and Deputy Rob Lee with the Gilchrist County Sheriff’s Office

On October 16, 2024, a 9-1-1 call was received…a subject suffering from a medical crisis. Within 6 minutes of receiving the emergency call, Dyle and Lee were on-scene of the subject’s residence. Upon arrival, CPR was initiated. Due to their quick response and emergency training, the subject was able to be stabilized once Gilchrist Fire Rescue personnel arrived, and transported for further care at a medical facility.

This one call is representative of the numerous acts above and beyond the call of duty, provided by Dyle and Lee.

For their fast action and live-saving professionalism, the Gilchrist County Sheriff’s Office and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Sgt. John Dyle and Deputy Rob Lee as SKY Valor honorees.

Detective Nicholas Sutliff with the Marion County Sheriff's Office 

Sutliff started the Marion County Sheriff's Office in 2015 as a deputy sheriff. He has served as a Patrol Deputy, SWAT Team Operator, Domestic Violence Unit Detective, and Major Crimes Unit Detective. Sutliff has investigated hundreds of Internet Crimes Against Children cases, executed dozens of related search warrants, and has made numerous felony arrests for related internet crimes.

Why is Det. Sutliff being honored?

Last August, Sutliff received tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. A Kik account suspect uploaded multiple files of child sexual abuse material to the platform, and additional files were uploaded through a private chat with another Kik user. Through an intense investigation Sutliff obtained warrants for the arrest of the suspect, on 4 counts of possession of child pornography and unlawful use of a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony.

As the investigation deepened, Sutliff obtained a search warrant for the suspect’s cell phone, which revealed still more evidence, leading to more child pornography charges. And worse, an additional tip indicated the suspect sent files of pictures and video of the battering a young child. The recovery of the horrific material led to the suspect admitting to the production of the video, and admission of rape. The suspect remains in custody at the Marion County Jail, being held without bond.

For his technical skills, the relentless pursuit of an on-line criminal, and the takedown of a heinous child predator, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Detective Nicholas Sutliff as a Valor Honoree.

Firefighter and Paramedic Ryan Tietjen with the Levy County Department of Public Safety

Tietjen tarted with Levy County in 2011 as an E-M-T. He is now a dual certified Firefighter and Paramedic, also working as an out of class shift captain as needed.

Why is FF/PM Tietjen being honored?

On May 8th, Levy County Rescue-9 responded to a call of a burn patient. Upon arrival, the crew unexpectedly confronted a working structure fire, with an initial concern that several occupants were in the dwelling. The crew quickly developed their plan. Tietjen knew time was of the essence, and entered the burning structure, while additional units were enroute. Tietjen successfully removed one live person…turning that victim over to the other 2 team-members for care.

Tietjen then re-entered the structure to look for more victims, while assisting incoming crew to extinguish the fire. Amid the intense fire, a confusing initial emergency call, and intermittent rural radio communications, it was determined that only one victim was inside the fire. His fast thinking saved that life in the initial minutes that mattered most.

For his courage and rapid action in an ever-changing emergency, the Levy County Department of Public Safety and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Firefighter and Paramedic Ryan Tietjen as a SKY Valor honoree.

Senior Trooper David Kitchen with the Florida Highway Patrol, Gainesville Troop B

Kitchen has over 12 years with FHP, serving in Pensacola, the Florida Keys, and now locally he is based in Gainesville

Why is Trooper Kitchen being honored?

Last July, a reckless driver ‘be-on-the-lookout call’ was reported on Interstate 75.  Trooper Kitchen soon observed the suspect’s vehicle traveling southbound, between Paynes Prairie and Micanopy in Alachua County.  After attempting to stop the suspect, the man took off.

The pursuit ended after several miles in Marion County, where the suspect struck multiple vehicles south of the county line.  Kitchen exited his patrol car, commanded the man to surrender, but the suspect attempted to get back in his crashed vehicle.  Kitchen and the suspect engaged in a physical altercation.  The man gained control of a firearm, at which time Kitchen was compelled to use deadly force against the felonious suspect.

Trooper Kitchen displayed the highest level of bravery, exposing himself to great personal danger.  But immediately after the deadly force incident, Kitchen began to render aid, attempting to save the life of the individual who intended to take his life.

For his courage in the face of grave danger, and his ultimate compassion, the Florida Highway Patrol and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Senior Trooper David Kitchen as a SKY Valor honoree.

Detective Anastasiya “Ana” Shkurko with the University of Florida Police Department

Shkurko studied criminology and English at UF, and is certified with the Florida Law Enforcement Academy. She specializes in complex investigations, evidence analysis, and public safety in her role as a detective.

Why is Det. Shkurko being honored?

While conducting routine online research related to recent protest activity and potential threats to campus safety, Shkurko encountered a Reddit post that raised immediate concern.  Believed to be authored by a UF student, the post included alarming statements indicating the individual had just attempted suicide for the second time.  Detective Shkurko notified her supervisor and swiftly worked to find the subject.  Demonstrating both technical expertise and investigative skill, she submitted an Emergency Disclosure request to Reddit, filed an emergency request with Google, and collaborated with UF - IT specialists to identify and locate the individual.

Shkurko raced to the subject’s residence with other responders, where she directly engaged with what was a distressed UF student, in a severe crisis.  The subject began vomiting uncontrollably, a clear indication that harmful substances may have been ingested.  Shkurko quickly requested Emergency Medical Services, remained with the individual, and ensured they received immediate medical attention.  The student was then transported to receive full, appropriate care.

Just as CPR can mean the difference between life and death, so too can the kind of proactive, intelligent, and compassionate response demonstrated by Shkurko…navigating complex channels to locate a student in crisis.

For her swift, decisive technical skill, and life-saving professionalism, the University of Florida Police Department and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Detective Ana Shkurko as a SKY Valor honoree.

Sheriff’s Deputy Izzabella “Bella” Luzader from the Levy County Sheriff’s Office

Luzader has served with Levy County since November of 2023. She is assigned to the Patrol Division and is one of the department’s designated recruiters.

Why is Luzader being honored?

On October 30th, Luzader and other deputies responded to a suicidal female subject, who was armed with a handgun. The woman was suffering from several acute stressors in her life at the time. Responding deputies were able to establish a perimeter, and safely remove a child and spouse from the home.

Deputy Luzader then initiated what would become extended negotiations with the woman. Luzader eventually convinced the subject to peacefully surrender. Deputies then removed a loaded, concealed handgun upon her surrender, preventing a potentially deadly incident. And the woman eventually received the treatment she needed.

For her professionalism in the de-escalation of a dangerous encounter, and the peaceful resolution of a mental health crisis, the Levy County Sheriff’s Office and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Sheriff’s Deputy Bella Luzader.

From Ocala Fire Rescue…saluting Fire Equipment Operator Jagger Maguire, Firefighter Jeffrey Saunders, Firefighter Joseph Villella, and Battalion Chief Josh Phillips.

Jagger Maguire is a Fire Equipment Operator and Paramedic who has been with Ocala Fire Rescue since 2015, serving on the Special Operations Team, and has deployed several times with Florida Task Force 8’s Urban Search and Rescue Team.

Jeffrey Saunders is a Firefighter-EMT assigned to Station #1, joining the team in April 2022, and is pursuing his Paramedic certification

Joseph Villella is a new and dedicated Firefighter-EMT, joining last August.

And Josh Phillips has served with Ocala Fire Rescue since 1999, now as a Battalion Chief, and he leads the Training Division. Phillips remains an active member of specialized units, including Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, and other Special Operations teams.

Why is this team being honored?

On October 24th, just after 11 at night, Ocala Fire Rescue responded to a residential structure fire at the 1100 block of NW 9th Avenue.  Tower 1 was first on the scene, at a small single-story residence, with heavy smoke and flames pouring from the front of the house.

FEO Maguire and Firefighter Saunders entered the home to conduct a search and rescue operation. A minute after arrival, they located and evacuated one resident through the front door with assistance from Firefighter Villella. A second victim, who was bed-bound, was discovered in a rear bedroom adjacent to the fire room. The firefighters worked with then-Captain Phillips on the exterior to safely remove that individual through the bedroom window, completing the operation within five minutes.

The fire was contained to the room of origin and was under control in approximately 15 minutes.

But both residents were transported to the hospital as trauma alerts, and received emergency treatment for smoke and flame exposure.  Both have made full recoveries.

For their rapid action, professionalism, and lifesaving ingenuity, Ocala Fire Rescue and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Fire Equipment Operator Jagger Maguire, Firefighter Jeffrey Saunders, Firefighter Joseph Villella, and Battalion Chief Josh Phillips as SKY Valor honorees.

Hampton has served with High Springs Police since 2011, a first-line supervisor guiding officers in everything from daily operations and training, to critical incident response, and community engagement.

Why is Sergeant Hampton being honored… 

This past February, Hampton responded to a critical emergency call involving a 4-year-old autistic boy, who had fallen into a swimming pool with approximately one foot of standing water. Dispatch advised that the child was found face down in the water. Sergeant Hampton was among the first to arrive on-scene. He quickly located the child’s panicked mother, who had pulled her child from the pool and was attempting to revive him. Observing the child’s shallow breathing and lack of responsiveness, Hampton took lifesaving action. Carefully repositioning the child, he cleared the airway, allowing water to drain from the boy’s lungs, while minimizing the risk of aspiration.

Hampton’s swift and deliberate response stabilized the child until emergency medical services arrived and assumed care. The child made a full recovery.

For taking swift and decisive action under pressure, the High Springs Police Department and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute the lifesaving professionalism of Sergeant Kendrick Hampton.