Ludlow first responders, dispatchers honored for their support in Wilbraham officer shooting incident

LUDLOW, Mass. (WWLP) – Ludlow public safety agencies were recognized Tuesday night for their support during a shooting incident in Wilbraham that seriously injured an officer earlier this year.

“They ran to their cruisers and they took off as fast as they could to Wilbraham to assist their fellow officer,” said Derek Debarge, Vice Chairman of the Ludlow Board of Selectmen. He told 22News, “It didn’t matter where they were or what they were doing, it was an officer in need of assistance and they were going.”

Ludlow first responders and dispatchers were honored for their quick response and bravery during the shooting incident in Wilbraham this past January.

During the standoff, an exchange of gun fire took place at a home on Old Carriage Drive. Wilbraham Officer Cameron Prosperi was struck by a bullet that left him seriously injured.

“On behalf of the town of Ludlow and its citizens, we, the Board of Selectmen, extend our deepest gratitude and respect for your service and sacrifice,” Debarge addressed the crowd.

Ludlow officers Adam Roach and Ryan Churchill were among the officers commended for securing a perimeter around the suspect’s home as Prosperi received critical first aid.

“We just wanted to help that person out and get there as fast as possible to alleviate that threat and make sure all the officers are safe,” said Officer Roach.

“We do the job and don’t expect anything in return. We appreciate the support from the community,” Officer Churchill added.

Officer Prosperi has been recovering since the incident. The Chief of Wilbraham Police, echoed that same gratitude Tuesday, to all the first responders who answered the call when they were needed most.

“We could have not done it without the help that we received from the surrounding agencies,” Chief Edward Lennon said. “Their response was overwhelming and humbling to us. We couldn’t be more appreciative to them.”

Ludlow Police officers and dispatchers who received letters of commendation include:

• Officer Michael Whitney
• Officer Ryan Churchill
• Officer Timothy Goodchild
• Officer Adam Roach
• Lt. David Irwin
• Dispatcher Samantha Jordan
• Dispatcher Linda Zina
• Dispatcher Michael Lynch

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP.