Trooper Christopher Matos

“Trooper Matos' actions made a difference on March 23rd when he assisted in the apprehension of an armed suspect firing shots in a local store in Jacksonville,” said Beatty. “He is to be commended for his actions.”

On March 23rd, Trooper Matos heard the call for assistance at a local retail store in Jacksonville. An armed suspect was inside the store firing a weapon as patrons exited the store. Trooper Matos and other local law enforcement officers appended the suspect and took him into custody.

“Trooper Matos went above and beyond the normal call of duty on this occasion in an attempt to possibly save others. This level of service exemplifies what it means to be a State Trooper—to serve others,” said Colonel Walter J. Wilson, Jr., Highway Patrol Commander.

The Heroism Award is the Department's highest award for heroism. The Heroism Award is presented to employees who risk their lives to help others.