GPD officer recognized for protecting children at Westwood Middle School from out-of-control vehicle
Staff report
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The incredible bravery and quick thinking of Gainesville Police Department Officer Stewart yesterday led to medical attention for a driver experiencing a seizure and protected middle school students from an out-of-control vehicle.
According to a GPD social media post, Officer Stewart was on patrol near 1600 NW 34th Street just as Westwood Middle School students were leaving school and noticed a white Volvo veering off the road and hitting street signs.
Realizing the imminent danger to pedestrians and other motorists, Officer Stewart acted swiftly. Despite the risk to his own safety, he strategically positioned his patrol car to intercept the oncoming vehicle, resulting in a vehicle collision.
It was later discovered that the driver of the Volvo was experiencing a seizure. Thanks to Officer Stewart’s decisive actions, a potentially tragic situation was averted. Both the driver and Officer Stewart were transported to the hospital for medical attention.
Officer Stewart later explained what happened in this video: https://www.facebook.com/GainesvillePolice/videos/1536665993782087
Wow, quick thinking and excellent bravery by Officer Stewart. Thank you for your service!
Thank you, Officer!
Quick thinking by the officer and the courage to step into danger demonstrates the meaning of a protecting and serving the community. Another example of what law enforcement does without question everyday. Thank you Officer Stewart and wishing a speedy recovery for all parties.
Cops deserve a 200% pay raise across the board, if they work here. And to pay for it, cut the pay of public attorneys, defense fees and judge salaries 50%.
Then we’ll see crime rates plummet.
What a brave and quick thinking action to do, this is the Kind of Police officer every City in The U S of A needs on our streets protecting the public, THANK YOU OFFICER STEWART.
I know this Officer. He is a truly humble decent God fearing man. A very down to earth man.
What GPD fails to tell you is that was the last new car he will ever get. He will get the worst peice of crud car, there is in the fleet . Unless things change, that how it has been, because he wrecked his patrol car of purpose. Ask an old cop.
He really didn’t do any extra special!! HE DID HIS JOB AND REALLY DOESNT DESERVE A RAISE!!!
So glad you were there to put your life in harms way to save a half dozen children , an additional driver (on coming lane) and render aid the woman having a seizure.