Roger Smith

On the morning of December 2, 2008, California Highway Patrol Officer Roger Smith was returning to his office when he heard CHP Officer David Madrigal’s attempt to contact dispatch for help. Officer Madrigal had been injured by a gunshot wound to his right leg while assisting Tehama County Sheriff’s Deputies with a domestic disturbance call. The gun shot had partially severed the officer’s femoral artery causing him to bleed profusely, and he was becoming faint. Officer Smith realized Officer Madrigal’s calls could not be heard by dispatch and contacted him car-to-car. Officer Smith relayed pertinent information from Officer Madrigal to the Redding Communications Center as he also sped towards the scene to provide assistance.

Officer Smith approached the scene knowing Officer Madrigal was still pinned down by live gunfire and seriously wounded. When he arrived, Officer Smith drove to a nearby location and spotted Officer Madrigal sitting on the ground leaning against his patrol vehicle, applying pressure to his leg. Officer Smith realized the urgency of the situation and quickly devised a plan. He moved his patrol car to a position adjacent to Officer Madrigal. He opened both rear doors, and with assistance from a Tehama County Sheriff’s Deputy, Officer Smith pulled Officer Madrigal into the rear seat of the patrol car and drove to a safe area and waiting medical personnel. The actions of Officer Smith prevented further injuries or possible death to Officer Madrigal.