The Police Officers Association of Michigan (POAM) proudly recognized Officer Jason Carpentier of the Grand Blanc Township Police Department with the 2026 Police Officer of the Year Award during the Business Meeting at our Annual Convention, held in Grand Rapids. The award is presented annually to officers who demonstrate exceptional heroism, leadership, and dedication in the line of duty.
Four Minutes That Saved Lives
Officer Carpentier was honored for his swift and decisive actions during an active shooter incident on September 28, 2025, in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan.
That day, officers were dispatched to the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints following reports of a vehicle crashing into the building and an armed suspect actively shooting inside. Early information also indicated that the suspect had started a fire within the church.
Inside, hundreds of community members had gathered for service. Within moments, the scene turned chaotic as people fled the building in search of safety.
Officer Carpentier, who was less than a mile away at the time of the call, immediately retrieved his patrol rifle and responded. As he approached, he observed smoke rising from the building and heard gunfire, confirming the severity of the situation.
Alongside a DNR Conservation Officer who was nearby, Officer Carpentier advanced toward the source of the gunfire. In the rear parking lot, they encountered the suspect, who remained armed and was actively shooting at fleeing individuals.
Officer Carpentier issued clear commands for the suspect to drop the weapon. When the suspect refused, and with lives in immediate danger, Officer Carpentier discharged his firearm, striking the suspect and stopping the threat.
He immediately broadcast over the radio that the shooter was down, providing critical information as initial reports suggested the possibility of multiple suspects.
The entire incident, from the first 911 call to the suspect being stopped, unfolded in under four minutes.
Due to Officer Carpentier’s rapid response and decisive action, responding officers were able to focus on evacuating victims and providing medical aid without further threat to public safety.
Congratulations to Officer Jason Carpentier
POAM commends Officer Carpentier for his courage, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to protecting others.