‘A true hero’: SAPD presents citizen with ‘life-saving award’

SAN ANGELO, Texas ( Concho Valley Homepage ) — The San Angelo Police Department has given a citizen a “life-saving award” after he helped save a juvenile from taking their life.

The award was given to citizen Samuel Duran at a press conference hosted by the SAPD and the San Angelo Police Officers Coalition during the afternoon hours of July 19

According to SAPD Chief Travis Griffith, Duran was traveling to his church for a Bible study at approximately 7 p.m. on a Tuesday in May 2024 when he encountered a juvenile who was “preparing to jump” off the side of a bridge.

Duran instructed nearby citizens to call 911 before crossing through traffic and attempting to “negotiate with the juvenile.” Duran then subdued the juvenile before they could jump off the rail, holding them down with assistance from other bystanders and preventing the individual from taking their own life.

“I think it just exemplifies San Angelo,” Griffith said. “Samuel … said he didn’t feel that special. I think it 100% is that special when you can recognize something and be able to really spring into action.”

Duran was presented with a plaque and challenge coin by the SAPOC to commemorate his efforts. Before accepting the awards, Duran took the time to thank God, the SAPD and the City of San Angelo.

“I just want to give God the glory and honor because He allowed me to be there, and that’s what really matters,” Duran said. “I didn’t expect this, but I thank God, and I thank the City of San Angelo and especially I thank y’all for doing this.”

Concluding the ceremony, Griffith reiterated on Duran’s character.

“This is a true hero, right here,” Griffith said.

To watch the full press conference, click here.

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