The Aurora Police and Fire Departments observed a moment of silence over the radio Saturday, Feb. 15 to mark one year since the mass shooting at the Henry Pratt Company where five workers were killed and five Aurora Police officers were injured.
At 1:24 p.m. Saturday, exactly one year since the first call went out for an active shooter at the Henry Pratt Company, Aurora Telecom lead operator Melissa Johnson read aloud a message to Aurora Police officers, Aurora Firefighters, and the hundreds of first responders who came to assist on that tragic day. She read the names of the five employees killed and the five Aurora Police officers shot while running towards gunfire one year ago. The remembrance culminated with first responders from around the city observing a moment of silence.
Johnson has been a dispatcher for the City of Aurora 911 Center for 33 years and was working on the day of the Henry Pratt mass shooting. Johnson answered one of the first 911 calls from someone inside the plant reporting an active shooter.
The moment of silence was followed by Aurora Fire Chief Gary Krienitz who said, “When faced with this act of violence in our community we responded with professionalism, bravery, and skill. Without question, our members rose to the task to preserve life and treat injuries. Your dedication and diligence is not forgotten.”
Aurora Police Chief Kristen Ziman followed and said, “One year ago today, the city of lights turned dark. We remember those we lost and we honor all of our officers who ran towards the gunfire. Our citizens are in capable hands because the men and women of the Aurora Police Department are the first line of defense for this fine city. Thank you for your sacrifice and may we continue to be Aurora Strong.”
Then just as the special radio message was about to end, officer Marco Gomez called in, “Paul 23 – Officer Gomez, can you put me in-service?”
Officer Gomez was the first of five officers to be shot while running towards the gunfire February 15, 2019. He was cleared to return to full duty Saturday, exactly one-year after the shooting.
Holding back tears, Johnson responded, “Paul 23 – Officer Gomez. Welcome back to duty. It’s great to have you back.”
“This is Aurora. We are Aurora Strong and we will never forget that day one year ago,” Johnson said to finish the message.
—Aurora Police Department