By Sarah Calams
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — An off-duty corrections officer was honored for springing into action after hearing gunshots Sunday.
WDRB.com reported that Louisville Metro Department of Corrections Officer Maranda Grayson heard the gunshots during a chaotic midday scene. A man, 32-year-old Christopher Gordon, shot a woman, Angelica James, to death. Gordon also shot James’ 10-year-old son in the hand and shoulder, and kidnapped their 2-year-old son. Gordon led police on a pursuit as well as a four-day manhunt.
“I went to go load my weapon, called 911 and ran outside,” Grayson, who tended to James’ 10-year-old son, said. She also performed CPR on James until paramedics arrived, according to the report.
“I saw the mother on the ground and I went to go help with her,” Grayson said.
Two days later, Grayson was recognized for her bravery with an Award of Valor.
“They meet the call; they don’t run from it, they run to it,” Dwayne Clark, Metro Corrections Director, said.
The experience, according to Grayson, deeply affected her. She told WDRB that she didn’t feel like a hero, because “two boys are now without a mom.”
“I would have if she was still here,” Grayson said while holding back tears. “I’m happy to know that his brother is back home and the guy is caught.”