Gowanda Police Officer Receives Liberty Medal

A Gowanda Village Police Officer was honored by Senator Catharine Young, (R, C, I – 57^th District), with a Liberty Medal, the highest recognition bestowed by the New York State Senate.

Officer Peter Randall was on patrol the night of March 7, when he was dispatched to a stabbing on Chestnut Street in the village.

Arriving on scene 90 seconds later, he saw 14-year-old Alexis John bleeding heavily from a neck wound. The snow bank beside her was turning red with her blood.

A former Army combat medic, Officer Randall’s training kicked in and he began providing immediate first aid that slowed the bleeding, saving Alexis’ life. After being stabilized at Lakeshore Hospital, she was transported to Women and Children’s Hospital in Buffalo. She has now fully recovered and is back with her family.

“Officer Randall’s quick thinking and composure saved Alexis’ life,” Senator Young said. “His actions are in the finest tradition of first responders and law enforcement.”

Established in 2014, the New York State Liberty Medal is the highest honor a Senator can bestow upon a constituent. It is awarded to individuals who merit special recognition for exceptional, heroic or humanitarian acts.

“A hero acts to save another without thinking about the danger or the risk to themselves,” Senator Young said. “Officer Randall certainly fits the definition of a hero.”

Officer Randall was presented with a Liberty Medal and a New York State Senate Resolution by Senator Young during a ceremony at Gowanda Village Hall on Tuesday.

“Officer Randall is an example to us all. Recognizing exceptional action that protects and benefits others is why the Liberty Medal was created,” Senator Young said. “I was honored to be able to present him with his medal.”