FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 18, 2024

For More Information Contact:
Scott Williamson
Police Chief
Police Department
660.785.6945

Officers recognized for life-saving work

(Kirksville, MO) - The City of Kirksville recognized five police officers for their life-saving efforts as part of Monday’s City Council meeting.

Sgt. Matt Kellison, Cpl. Ryan Ford, Det. Aaron Followwill, Cpl. Jonathan Novinger and Ofc. Justin Fox were honored for their actions to save Kirksville citizens.


Pictured left to right: Cpl. Ryan Ford; John Hanley, the citizen who was saved; Sgt. Matt Kellison; Police Chief Scott Williamson. 

Sgt. Matt Kellison and Cpl. Ryan Ford responded to a medical call for an unconscious male on February 17, 2024. On arrival, Sgt. Kellison noticed a chemical odor at the residence and observed the unconscious male at the bottom of a staircase. After recognizing the potential danger from an unknown gas, and with disregard for their safety, Sgt. Kellison and Cpl. Ford entered the basement to render aid. They carried the man upstairs and out of the residence through the snow, then assisted medical personnel.

The Kirksville Fire Department determined there were high concentrations of carbon monoxide. Sustained carbon monoxide concentrations above 150 ppm can cause disorientation, unconsciousness and death. KFD measurements found carbon monoxide levels in the home were above 280 ppm.

For their selfless act of preventing a citizen's death, the Kirksville Police Department presented the Lifesaving Award to Sgt. Matt Kellison and Cpl. Ryan Ford.


Pictured left to right: Ofc. Justin Fox, Cpl. Jonathan Novinger, Det. Aaron Followwill, Police Chief Scott Williamson. 

On April 26, 2021, Det. Aaron Followwill, Cpl. Jonathan Novinger and Ofc. Justin Fox were dispatched to a business for a suicidal adult male who was cutting his neck. The officers attempted to de-escalate the situation and talk to the subject. The officers then took control of the subject and provided medical aid, slowing the bleeding until medical personnel arrived. The person was transported to Northeast Regional Medical Center. Officers remained there and the man’s life was saved.

For their quick action and compassion that ultimately prevented the death of a person in crisis, the Kirksville Police Department presented the Lifesaving Award to Det. Aaron Followwill, Cpl. Jonathan Novinger and Ofc. Justin Fox.

If you would like to watch the full presentation, click here: https://www.youtube.com/live/oUIACZVXRt4?si=H9YYpkzXYwNX1fiR&t=713. 

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