By Tiffany Williams –
I recall a conversation with my father long ago when I asked him why he chose to work as a police officer in Springfield. He simply said, “Because Springfield is special.” Over the years, I’ve come to see firsthand just how extraordinary this city on the Connecticut River truly is.
However, just when you think you’ve seen everything, something incredible happens that further showcases the remarkable nature of this Western Massachusetts community.
On June 5th, 2024, Springfield Police Officer Nestor Santos was tragically shot in the leg and face. After being rushed to a Baystate Medical, officer Santos was taken to a hospital in Boston for treatment, and while he faces a long road to recovery on Thursday, June 13th, 2024, Officer Santos was finally discharged from the hospital.
As Officer Santos left the hospital, his fellow law enforcement officers were there to support him and his family, ensuring their safe return to their home in central Massachusetts.
The Springfield Police IBPO Local 364 Patrolman’s Union set up an account at the Greater Springfield Credit Union for Officer Nestor Santos. Additionally, the Greg Hill Foundation announced it would match all donations up to $5,000, and the Wetzel Group pledged to match an additional $2,500 in donations.
Speaking about Officer Santos and his family, Springfield Police Superintendent Larry Akers stated, “It’s going to be a long road to recovery. We want to give them their privacy. Our Springfield police officers are going to be with them every step of the way. We’re going to be by their side to make sure that they know that we’re here for them.”
On Thursday, June 20th, 2024, the city once again demonstrated its exceptional nature. During a community meeting in the North End, Jose Claudio from the New North Citizens Council, on behalf of 90 Meat Outlet & Latino Foods Distributors, Latino Counseling Center, Puerta Del Cielo Funeral Home and Cremations, and Springfield Pharmacy, presented a generous check for $8,500 to Springfield Police Superintendent Lawrence Akers in support of Officer Nestor Santos.
“We thank each and every organization and business who made this donation,” Springfield Police expressed their gratitude.
NewsTalk New England 