FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 22, 2025

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

Sgt. Juan Chairez receives Life Saving Award

(Kirksville, MO) - The Kirksville Police Department is pleased to announce that Sgt. Juan Chairez received the Life Saving Award during Monday’s City Council Meeting for his actions while on duty.

On January 8, 2025, at about 1:15 am, officers were dispatched to a residence in the 700 block of S. Sixth St. for a reported burglary in progress. Sgt. Chairez made contact with an adult male who said an unknown man had his girlfriend on the floor in a bedroom.

The door to the bedroom was blocked, and Sgt. Chairez forced it open. Upon entering, he observed a male subject on the floor, choking an adult female to unconsciousness. Sgt Chairez deployed his Taser and pulled the male off the victim. Once the suspect was in custody, assisting officers started first aid on the victim until medical personnel arrived. The victim was transported to Northeast Regional Medical Center and has recovered from her physical injuries.

Based on the victim’s unconscious status, there is no doubt that she would have suffered serious permanent injury or death had Sgt. Chairez not taken decisive action.

Join the Kirksville Police Department in recognizing Sgt. Chairez for his actions during this incident.

Chairez (center) is pictured with his sons (bottom), Police Chief Scott Williamson (left) and Mayor Pro Tem John Gardner (right). 

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