Officer

California Highway Patrol

1/10/2001

Special Act Award (Gold)

At approximately 11:36 a.m., on January 10, 2001, Officer David Qualls and Officer Troy Marks monitored a call of shots being fired at the Lyon’s Restaurant in an unincorporated part of Nevada County. Upon their arrival, the officers noted numerous people running from the front entrance of the restaurant. The officers were the first law enforcement personnel to arrive on the scene. Several individuals advised them of a man down with gunshot wounds in the rear parking lot. Both officers drew their weapons and cautiously approached the rear of the building. They observed a man lying on his back, covered in blood. The victim was later identified as Mr. R. Senuty, a cook in the restaurant. Officer Qualls called out to Mr. Senuty to ascertain his condition and determine the location of the suspect. Mr. Senuty indicated the suspect was still inside the restaurant with other patrons. Because of the imminent threat to human life, and despite the fact they were placing themselves in immediate peril, the officers made a conscious decision to enter the building. This decision was based on the officers’ firm belief the suspect was inside and that it was highly likely he would continue to shoot patrons. Officers Qualls and Marks began searching from room to room for the suspect. During the search, they were joined by Battalion Chief Rob Paulus from the California Department of Forestry. In the rear kitchen area, the officers found the body of the restaurant manager who had been shot to death. Chief Paulus assisted the officers with searching the rest of the building, and after a short time, they were able to determine the suspect had left the premises. After completing the search for the suspect, Officers Qualls and Marks took steps to secure the crime scene, preserve evidence, and identify witnesses. Once additional personnel arrived on the scene, an extensive search of the area was initiated. Officers Qualls and Marks also assisted with this effort.