Recognizing Officer Zachary Behnke’s Courage
During the 2025 POAM Annual Convention and Police Officer of the Year Awards Ceremony in Grand Rapids, we recognized Albion Department of Public Safety Officer Zachary Behnke with one of the organization’s highest honors for his heroic actions that saved two lives on Thanksgiving Day 2024.
The award was presented before a crowd of law enforcement professionals, elected officials, and public safety leaders across Michigan, as part of the annual celebration recognizing bravery and dedication in the line of duty.
Thanksgiving Day River Rescue
On November 28, 2024, at approximately 4:25 p.m., Officer Behnke responded to a vehicle crash along the Kalamazoo River after a car carrying Donald and Lorene Kirby veered off South Superior Street and plunged into the icy water. The vehicle’s driver, Mrs. Kirby, had suffered a seizure while behind the wheel, accelerating uncontrollably before the vehicle left the roadway.
Albion resident and Eagle Scout Randolph Fox had been fishing nearby and narrowly missed being struck by the car. He immediately called 911, stripped to his underclothes to avoid being dragged under in rescue conditions, and swam into the frigid river to assist the couple.
Officer Behnke Risks Life to Save Others
Upon arrival, Officer Behnke entered the river without hesitation. Facing near-zero visibility, freezing temperatures, and muck that behaved like quicksand, Behnke worked with Mr. Fox to pry open the submerged vehicle’s driver-side door and free Mrs. Kirby, who was unconscious and trapped by her seatbelt. He successfully swam her to shore, then re-entered the water to rescue Mr. Kirby as the vehicle continued to sink. Fire Chief David Phipps and arriving emergency personnel assisted in pulling all involved to safety.
A Community Grateful for Heroic Actions
Both victims survived, with Mrs. Kirby recovering from critical injuries. In a letter to local media, Mr. Kirby later shared his “undying thanks” to Officer Behnke and Mr. Fox, calling their actions “the reason my wife and I are alive today.”
Congratulations to Officer Zachary Behnke on his commendable service and the 2025 Police Officer of the Year Award.