An Owen Sound police officer is being honoured for his bravery in a 2023 incident.
City police say Sergeant Josh Gurney has been awarded the Ontario Medal for Police Bravery, one of the province’s highest honours for law enforcement, for his exceptional courage and professionalism during a high-risk incident that took place on September 24, 2023.
On that date, Gurney responded to a dangerous call involving two stabbing victims and armed suspects.
Police say “His swift and strategic actions ensured the safe arrest of both suspects and expedited medical care for the victims.”
They say, “Sgt. Gurney placed himself between a suspect and civilian witnesses, prioritizing their safety while using tactical communication and spatial control to avoid the use of deadly force. His situational awareness enabled a successful transition to non-lethal means to subdue the suspect. Immediately after, he identified that a second suspect remained at large and took initiative to locate and arrest that individual, preventing further harm.”
Police add, “These actions exemplify the highest standards of policing and reflect Sgt. Gurney’s commitment to public safety. We are proud to see his bravery recognized at the provincial level.”
The Ontario Medal for Police Bravery recognizes police officers for individual acts of outstanding courage.