INDIANAPOLIS — February 27, 2022 is a day that forever changed the life of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Officer Thomas Mangan.
Mangan was shot in the neck while responding to a call in Fountain Square. After shots were fired, his partner, Officer Dan Majors and four other officers rushed to help their wounded colleague.
IMPD says less than five minutes after the gunfire ended, firefighters on IFD Engine 3 arrived at the scene. The four firefighters went into the scene, loaded Mangan into the fire engine and met an ambulance on the way to the hospital.
"There's family that is blood related; there's a really tight bond that's there. Family is also who God puts in your life and [who] are there for you. Out in the community you don't know who those people are until you say hi to them," Mangan said.
On Friday, Mangan was awarded the Purple Heart and Medal of Valor. Officer Majors was also awarded a Medal of Valor. The IFD firefighters each got a life-saving certificate.
PREVIOUS: 'It's about service' IMPD officer who was shot and critically injured in Feb. finds strength in his faith | 'It hasn't been easy': Injured IMPD officer, wife share health update and message of thanks
Mangan said the event brought tears to his eyes and he expressed his gratitude for those around him. The shooting damaged his Adam's apple and voice box and he has been working on speech exercises as his voice strengthens.
"I can also thank all of them in person and thank them personally since I haven't been able to thank them in the past when I couldn't speak," Mangan said.
Like she has been throughout Mangan's journey and recovery, his wife Emory Mangan joined him at the ceremony.
-
FBI disrupts 'ISIS-inspired' plot by juvenile at Indiana high school
The FBI disrupted an ISIS-inspired plot targeting a central Indiana high school, according to the agency's 2025 annual report highlighting significant increases in arrests and public safety impacts.
Congressman Jim Baird and his wife recovering after car accident
U.S. Representative Jim Baird is hospitalized after a car accident and expected to make a full recovery, according to a statement from his office.
Fire cadet programs ignite career paths for Indiana teens
Fire cadet programs across central Indiana are helping students discover meaningful careers in public service by providing early training, mentorship and life-saving skills.
Plainfield could be home to the next data center
The Plainfield Plan Commission unanimously approved a primary plat petition for a proposed data center at the meeting on Monday night.
