A school resource officer’s quick response helped prevent a possible mass shooting after he confronted a lone gunman at an Illinois high school on Wednesday, May 16, officials said.
The white male suspect—later identified as Matthew Milby, a former student at the school—had fired multiple shots near the west gymnasium of Dixon High school during the morning hours.
During the pursuit, Officer Mark Dallas was shot at several times by the suspect, but was not hit. Dallas returned fire and wounded the suspect with non-life threating injuries. The shooter was taken into custody and is currently receiving medical attention.
The suspect is under 24-hour surveillance, police added.
“I could not be more proud of the police officer and the way he responded to the situation. With shots ringing out through the hallways of the school, he charged towards the suspect and confronted him head-on,” Chief of Dixon Police, Steve Howell said. “Because of his heroic actions, countless lives were saved. We are forever indebted to him for his service and his bravery.”
Officer Dallas is had been assigned as the Dixon High School Resource Officer for the past 5 years. Due to his quick response, there were no injuries to any staff, students, or community members. The Dixon Police Department also said there was no “further threat.”
The story of the officer’s heroic actions garnered praise from many, including Vice President Mike Pence.
Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner also commended Dallas for his selfless courage.
Officer Dallas will be placed on paid administrative leave per policy. An investigation into the incident is also ongoing.
The association is calling upon the State to include funding in the 2018 budget to provide enough for at least one armed school resource officer at every grade school and high school.
