The Police Officers Association of Michigan (POAM) proudly recognized Officer Paige Whitten of the Garden City Police Department with the 2026 Police Officer of the Year Award during the Business Meeting at our Annual Convention, held in Grand Rapids. This year’s ceremony brought together law enforcement professionals from across the state to honor the year’s most distinguished acts of service.
Facing an Armed Suspect with No Cover and Little Time
Officer Whitten was honored for her decisive actions and courage during a rapidly evolving and dangerous incident on December 26, 2023, in Garden City, Michigan.
That morning, officers were dispatched to what was initially reported as a vehicle crash. As additional information was relayed, the situation escalated quickly when dispatch reported that individuals involved in the crash were actively shooting at one another.
A suspect, described as armed and moving through the area, posed an immediate threat to both responding officers and civilians traveling through one of the city’s busiest intersections.
Officer Whitten arrived on scene and positioned her patrol vehicle on the westbound side of the road. Standing in the roadway ahead of her vehicle was an individual matching the suspect’s description.
The suspect began moving toward Officer Whitten’s patrol car, closing the distance quickly. In a matter of seconds, he raised a handgun and pointed it directly at her through the windshield.
With no cover and no time to retreat, Officer Whitten recognized the immediate and life-threatening danger. From inside her patrol vehicle, she discharged three shots through the windshield, striking the suspect and stopping the threat.
Additional officers arrived within moments and observed the suspect still armed. Despite repeated commands to drop the weapon, he initially refused, continuing to hold the firearm before eventually discarding it. Officers maintained control of the situation and took the suspect into custody.
Medical aid was rendered at the scene until emergency responders arrived. Officers then worked to secure the area, identify any additional victims, and ensure the safety of nearby civilians who had been in close proximity to the incident.
Because of Officer Whitten’s quick thinking and decisive action, no officers were injured, and further violence was prevented.
Congratulations, Officer Paige Whitten
POAM commends Officer Paige Whitten for her unwavering commitment to protecting others and bravery in the face of immediate danger.