Officers recognized for achievements

Amherst Police Chief John Moslow honors officers Robert McMahon and Kyle Schraufstetter with the spring 2006 Merit Award on Aug. 17 at police headquarters.

for achievements

Sometimes while on duty a police officer is faced with a situation that requires quick, responsible decision making. Those who rise to the challenge are honored by the Amherst Police Department and the spring 2006 Merit Award honorees were officers Robert McMahon and Kyle Schraufstetter.

McMahon was submitted by Lt. Antonio Manzella for his actions on June 17. McMahon was on routine patrol when he noticed three suspicious males standing around a vehicle in a lot near six corners.

McMahon turned around to interview the subjects who then fled on foot. The officer radioed in the pursuit and additional patrols responded to the area. McMahon inspected the vehicle the suspects were surrounding and determined they were in the process of stealing it. A second vehicle in the lot was inspected and found to be freshly stolen. All three suspects were apprehended in the area, and charged appropriately. McMahon's ability to recognize and react to suspicious activity in such a diligent and dedicated manner led to a commendable self initiated arrest.

Schraufstetter, submitted by Lt. Daniel McCollum, was recognized for his actions on March 18. Officer Schraufstetter responded to a report of a motor vehicle accident on South Ellicott Creek Road wherein a car hit a tree, a pole, and another vehicle before bursting into flames with the driver trapped inside.

Schraufstetter, the first on the scene, immediately attempted to extinguish the flames and rescue the driver. As he first approached the car, the occupant was still visible in the flames. When the contents of the first fire extinguisher were exhausted, Schraufstetter found two others, and twice more approached the vehicle to battle the flames despite the intense heat.

The person trapped in the burning vehicle had succumbed to a head injury prior to the fire. Schraufstetter acted in a gallant and courageous manner, risking his own safety in this attempt to save the trapped motorist.