The Police Officers Association of Michigan (POAM) proudly recognized Officer John Shenkaruk of the Livonia Police Department with the 2026 Police Officer of the Year Award during our Annual Convention, held in Grand Rapids.
A Split-Second Decision to Protect Civilian Lives
Officer Shenkaruk was honored for his decisive actions, leadership, and composure during a volatile and life-threatening incident on June 6, 2025, in Livonia, Michigan.
That afternoon, Officer Shenkaruk was dispatched to a disturbance near Middlebelt Road and Five Mile Road involving an individual reportedly under the influence of hallucinogens. What began as a concerning situation escalated rapidly when the suspect entered a nearby retail area.
The suspect first entered an airsoft store, where he moved behind the sales counter and began taking merchandise. When confronted by an employee, he produced a handgun and demanded car keys. He then exited the store and entered a neighboring cell phone repair business, where a lone employee was inside.
After receiving the 911 call, Officer Shenkaruk arrived on scene alongside Officer Heath, who had only recently completed his academy training. Recognizing both the immediate threat and the need for control, Officer Shenkaruk directed Officer Heath into a position of cover and advanced toward the scene.
Inside the store, the suspect remained armed and continued to pose a serious danger. Officer Shenkaruk instructed employees to exit the building and move to a safe location. As they began to flee, the situation intensified.
The suspect produced a stolen handgun, racked the slide, and pointed the weapon directly at Officer Shenkaruk. At the same time, employees were moving between the suspect and the officer, placing them directly in harm’s way.
Faced with an armed suspect, a confined space, and civilians in immediate danger, Officer Shenkaruk made a critical decision. From outside the store, he discharged his service weapon through the front window, striking the suspect and stopping the threat.
The suspect fell, allowing the employees to escape safely.
Following the incident, Officer Shenkaruk maintained control of the scene, calmly radioing for emergency assistance and directing responding officers. He secured the suspect’s weapon and immediately began rendering aid, working alongside additional officers until emergency medical personnel arrived.
The suspect was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Congratulations, Officer Shenkaruk
POAM commends Officer John Shenkaruk for his leadership, precision, and commitment to protecting innocent lives under extraordinary pressure.