By Jason W. Brooks
Mail | X: @JasonWBrooks2

Chandler Police Officer Brian Larison was honored at the City Council’s March 24 study session for his heroic and quick action at a February vehicle wreck.

Larison was on his way to work the morning of Feb. 18 when a violent, seven-vehicle wreck along U.S. 60 in Mesa happened in front of him.

Larison and off-duty Peoria firefighter and medic Asa Paguia, who also happened to be on-scene, pulled wreck victim Aymee Ruiz out of her vehicle as fire had broken out nearby.

By breaking her driver’s side window and pulling Ruiz out, Larison and Paguia probably saved her life, Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke said in reading about why Larison was receiving a community hero award.

“We recognize the exceptional bravery and quick thinking of Officer Larison,” Hartke read. “His actions represent the highest standards of courage and selflessness.”

Chandler Police Chief Bryan Chapman said the lifesaving actions Larison took weren’t something the department trains officers to do.

“That was just basic human kindness,” Chapman said. “That’s the kind of people who work for the city of Chandler.”

A cement-truck driver was cited for causing the multi-vehicle wreck.

Ruiz was also at the study session, taking a group photo with Larison, Chandler Police leaders, Hartke and the council.

“He deserves it,” Ruiz said of the recognition. “Thank you to everybody. It’s an honor to be part of this recognition.”

Larison and Paguia were also honored at a recent Mesa City Council meeting.

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Jason W. Brooks
News Editor | Chandler Independent

Jason W. Brooks joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in July 2021 as an associate editor. After a year covering Buckeye, he has covered Chandler since the fall of 2022, in addition to assisting the Daily Independent throughout his time at INI.

Education: University of New Mexico, bachelor of arts in journalism and mass communication, print emphasis, English minor.

Random Fact: He and his siblings witnessed a Space Shuttle launch and landing in the same year in person, on opposite coasts.

Hobbies: Karaoke, bicycling and American Sign Language.

Community: He supports animal shelters.