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Swift response from veterans
In a remarkable display of courage, four tactically trained veterans, dubbed the “band dads,” intervened during a shooting incident at a high school band competition in Pasadena, Texas. Their quick actions not only prevented further violence but also showcased the importance of community vigilance in times of crisis.
The incident unfolded on a Saturday evening when an 83-year-old man, Dennis Brandl, allegedly opened fire at the event, injuring a 26-year-old percussion consultant.
As chaos erupted, with attendees screaming and fleeing, these veterans sprang into action.
Abram Trevino, Adam Curow, Efrain Castillo, and Houston Police Department Sergeant Joe Sanchez quickly assessed the situation and rushed towards the source of the gunfire. Their military training kicked in, allowing them to coordinate effectively and tackle the shooter before he could inflict more harm.
Community heroes emerge
The Pasadena Independent School District confirmed that Brandl fired two shots, one of which struck the victim in the shoulder. Fortunately, the victim was taken to a Houston hospital and is expected to recover fully. The rapid response from the band dads, along with other bystanders, was crucial in subduing Brandl until law enforcement arrived.
Curow recounted how he and Sanchez immediately ran towards the danger, demonstrating a level of bravery that many aspire to emulate.
“I grabbed his arms while Adam took the gun out. Once the gun was removed from his hands, we had no handcuffs, so I took my belt off and made a handcuff,” Sanchez explained.
Their teamwork and quick thinking were instrumental in preventing what could have been a far more tragic outcome.
Understanding the motive
While the motive behind Brandl’s actions remains unclear, he claimed to have been chased and feared for his life and that of his wife.
Authorities are investigating his background and why he was present at the band competition. The Pasadena Police Department expressed gratitude for the brave actions of the veterans and bystanders, emphasizing that their intervention likely saved lives.
In a statement, the police department acknowledged the heroism displayed that day, stating, “We are grateful for the brave citizens and the officers who were on the scene for security at the game and courageously stepped up to detain the shooter and prevent any possible further violence.” This incident serves as a reminder of the potential for ordinary citizens to become heroes in extraordinary circumstances.
