Cleveland state trooper honored for life-saving work

CLEVELAND (WJW) — An Ohio State Highway Patrol trooper transitioned from traffic detail to life-saving measures when he encountered a gunshot victim this past winter.

For his swift response and “professionalism, courage and dedication,” Cleveland District trooper Matthew Boyer was awarded the Distinguished Service Medallion at a Wednesday ceremony in Cleveland.

Maple Heights clinic worker stabbed multiple times

Boyer was on regular patrol in Akron on Jan. 16 when he located the victim in a private parking lot who was “actively losing blood,” according to a news release from the patrol.

In body-worn camera footage provided by the patrol, the clearly distressed man is heard praying as Boyer searches for the bullet wound and applies a tourniquet.

“His ability to remain calm under pressure and take decisive action in a critical situation is a testament to his exceptional character and training,” reads the release. “Trooper Boyer is not only an asset to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, but to the citizens of Ohio and the community he serves.”

Suspect in deadly Cleveland crash faces judge

Boyer, speaking to reporters Wednesday, said he followed up with local authorities after the incident, to find out if the man survived — and learned he had.

“I’m always concerned. ‘Did they survive? Did I do the right thing?’ You kind of question yourself,” Boyer said. “You rely back on your training, but at the same time, you want to make sure like, ‘Did I apply the tourniquet in the right spot? Did I make it tight enough?’

“No one wants to see anybody die. If I’m the last person there to make sure that this male survives this shooting, then I want to do everything I can to make sure he survives.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.