SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio Police Chief William McManus praised Joshua Rael, a good Samaritan, for saving the life of a police officer who had been shot during a domestic dispute call last week.
“On behalf of the entire San Antonio Police Department, we thank you for your bravery and your heroism. I mean, somebody’s under fire right outside your house. For you to come out and pull that individual inside, pull that officer inside, that’s bravery right there,” McManus told Rael.
McManus said the two officers who were shot were the first to arrive at the scene. They both sustained life-threatening injuries that required immediate medical attention.
“It was a very severe wound. It could have easily bled out, and the timing, of course, is critical when you’re bleeding, and Mr. Rael came along just at the right time,” McManus said.
The chief said he was floored when he learned of Rael’s selfless and lifesaving actions.
“I was taken aback by that in a great way, and I have so much respect for Mr. Rael that I can’t even describe it,” said McManus.
Officer Santiago Vizcarra was able to assist Rael calmly and effectively in placing the tourniquet above the gunshot wound.
McManus says both injured officers are doing well.
“I texted him two days ago, and he seems to be doing OK on his way to recovery, thank goodness. And I think he’s doing OK,” said McManus, referring to one of the officers.
McManus also acknowledged Rael’s wife and her efforts and says a recognition is in the works.
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