LAS VEGAS — The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department has awarded 24 officers the Unit Medal of Valor for their actions during the deadly shooting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, recognizing a group of first responders who ran toward gunfire as the crisis unfolded.
The honors, part of the department’s Best of the Badge program, acknowledge officers who acted without hesitation on the day three victims were killed and a fourth critically wounded. As students and faculty sheltered in place, officers arrived within minutes of the initial 911 calls, entering the building while the location of the assailant remained uncertain.
According to LVMPD, the first wave of officers navigated multiple floors, clearing classrooms and offices where students and employees had barricaded themselves. During their search, a wounded victim emerged and received immediate medical attention from officers and responding paramedics.
Outside the main entrance, another group of officers moved toward gunfire as the suspect exchanged shots with UNLV Police detectives. Detectives ultimately stopped the gunman, ending the threat, but LVMPD officers continued sweeping the area to ensure no additional shooters or victims remained.
Sheriff Kevin McMahill called the officers’ actions an example of decisive, coordinated policing in the face of a rapidly evolving threat. “These officers did exactly what our community depends on them to do,” McMahill said. “They confronted danger head-on to protect lives and prevent further tragedy.”
The Unit Medal of Valor is one of the department’s highest honors, reserved for officers who demonstrate extraordinary courage during critical incidents.
The officers recognized were: Lt. Matthew Harris; Sgt. Vincent Diasparra; Sgt. Kyle Frett; Sgt. Christopher Kinman; Sgt. Richard Marini; Officer Nicklaus Bachman; Officer Daniel Blount; Officer Corey Brathor; Officer Rodrigo Chavez; Officer Joshua Giese; Officer Chad Leavitt; Officer Jeremy Lefberg; Officer Justin Mabeza; Officer Michael Marano; Officer Marwan Mohammed; Officer Paul Mumm; Officer Jacob Noriega; Officer Marc Prager; Officer Lino Ramos; Officer Stephen Riedy; Officer Zachery Rios; Officer John Rivera; Officer Nicholas Sarafin; and Officer Ty Vesperas.
The December ceremony continues the department’s annual recognition of standout service, highlighting acts of bravery, lifesaving intervention and community dedication across the agency.
