WASHINGTON CO. COMMISSIONERS HONOR PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICIALS AFTER DPS OFFICE ATTACK
(right) shakes the hand of County Commissioner
Don Koester (left) after receiving a plaque at
Tuesday's county commissioners meeting in
recognition of the EMS Department's service during
the April 12th attack at the Brenham DPS Office.
Washington County first responders and public safety officials were honored today (Tuesday) for their service during the attack on the Brenham DPS Office on April 12th.
During commissioners court, plaques were presented to members of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Brenham Police Department, Washington County EMS, Brenham Fire Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, 911 Emergency Dispatch, Washington County Constables and the Office of Emergency Management. The plaques commended the departments in recognition of their acts that day when an 18-wheeler crashed into the DPS Office, resulting in two deaths and several other injuries.
Petrash (left) speaks during Tuesday's county
commissioners meeting about the attack on the
Brenham DPS Office on April 12th.
Members of each department came forward to share their experiences from the 12th and their thoughts on the community coming together in the aftermath to help those in need.
Washington County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Jay Petrash extended condolences and sympathies to the families impacted. He also said this event should not be labeled as merely an incident, but an assault on law enforcement agencies.
Interim Brenham Police Chief Lloyd Powell said he is immensely grateful for the outpouring of support for all those involved and is honored to be included among those who serve.
EMS District Chief Tanner Jacob, who served as the medical incident commander on the 12th, said everyone was all hands on deck that day, and he is extremely proud of the team members that worked to keep the public safe.
Rhea Cooper, now exiting as Brenham Fire Chief after serving as the interim since January, appreciates the commitment shown by those serving in Washington County public safety to do the job that is needed, and he is thankful for the opportunity to have been a part of that.
DPS Sergeant Jason Dominguez commented on the strong relationships that exist between local public safety departments and with DPS, as well as the support from the public that continues to this day.
Washington County Precinct 1 Constable Ken Holle said April 12th was a tragic day, but he is greatly inspired by how every part of the community has rallied together.
Following the conclusion of the speeches, the crowd stood and applauded all of the departments. County Judge John Durrenberger, referencing Holle’s words, said the phrase “Washington County united” is simply stated, but has a lot of meaning.