BROWNWOOD, Texas - At the regularly called Brownwood City Council meeting on November 25, 2025, Police Chief James Fuller and Assistant Chief Jesse Mares recognized several members of the Brownwood Police Department for their actions during an armed incident that occurred on July 8, 2025.
According to Chief Fuller, officers responded to an emergency call reporting a man firing a firearm in front of a residence. The situation quickly escalated when the individual began shooting at responding officers. Officers James Holdar and Caden Goodman were the first to come under fire on two separate occasions as the suspect approached them while discharging an automatic firearm.
The suspect then left the area and drove toward Cpl. Kris Salazar and Officer Zachary Bessent, again firing at officers. Cpl. Salazar and Officer Bessent returned fire, bringing the incident to an end. Chief Fuller noted that all officers involved demonstrated exceptional bravery in the face of significant danger, acting swiftly to protect one another and the community.
Chief Fuller also recognized the role of Brownwood Police Department dispatch staff during the incident. Dispatchers Liana Winters, Aaron McNeely, and Charity Graves were the first to receive calls and coordinate communication, providing calm and essential support to officers on scene.
The following recognitions were presented:
Purple Heart: Cpl. Kris Salazar
Medal of Valor: Cpl. Kris Salazar, Officer James Holdar, Officer Caden Goodman, and Officer Zachary Bessent Challenge Coins: Dispatchers Aaron McNeely, Liana Winters, and Charity Graves, for their composure and critical support throughout the incident.
Chief Fuller stated that the actions taken during the incident reflect the City of Brownwood’s ISERVE mission - Integrity, Service, Excellence, Respect, Vision, and Empathy, and the Police Department’s guiding principle of “Service Before Self.”
Mayor Stephen E. Haynes expressed his gratitude for the officers and dispatchers recognized at the meeting. “Our community is blessed to have men and women in law enforcement who are willing to run toward danger so that others can be safe,” Haynes said. “Their courage, training, and professionalism on that day, and the sacrifices they and their families make every day, reflect the commitment and honor they carry daily as public servants, and we are deeply grateful for their service to Brownwood.”