Park Workers Commended for Heroic Actions in Colorado Shooting Incident

Amid what seemed like an ordinary day at work, two city employees in Commerce City were unexpectedly thrust into a life-or-death situation. Jairo Aguayo and Roberto Montes Garcia, both park operations specialists and members of AFSCME Colorado, found themselves at the forefront of a crisis they never anticipated.

While attending to a leak in the park's irrigation system, Aguayo and Montes Garcia overheard a heated argument nearby. Initially, the altercation did not distract them from their work until gunshots rang out only 20 feet away. Quickly taking cover, Aguayo immediately dialed 911, providing the operator with a detailed description of the suspect as events unfolded.

In the chaos that ensued, a bystander was caught in the crossfire, suffering a gunshot wound. The two workers noticed the injured person as panic spread among the onlookers. "As soon as the operator asked us if we could tell if there were injured people... that's when we saw the car and some people were freaking out," Aguayo recalled.

Drawing on their training in first aid for shooting victims, Aguayo and Montes Garcia acted swiftly to assist the bystander, applying pressure to the wound to stem the bleeding. "I know we made a difference because we did help her out," Aguayo stated. Their decisive action was crucial, as others stood by uncertain of how to respond.

For their bravery and quick response, the Commerce City Council honored Aguayo and Montes Garcia with commendations. The council praised their actions, noting, "[their] response reflects the very best of public service, and they were truly heroes that day."

With 13 years of service, Aguayo is no stranger to prioritizing the welfare of his community. "In everything I do, I put myself in the position of one of the park users," he explains. His dedication is evident in his daily tasks, from maintaining the park's irrigation system to preparing sports fields for the community.

Reflecting on the day's events, Aguayo remarked, “I could say we were doing our job, helping people out... but it feels above that. It feels like it was our job to be there, but it feels good to be there just to help out.”