KANSAS CITY, Kan. — When officers put on their uniforms and go to work, they realize the potential for danger while serving their communities.
But Captain Michael Howell was off duty shopping in Costco when police say 58-year-old Ronald Hunt entered the store with a handgun.
"There's no shields, there's no backup, and for him to immediately recognize the threat and deal with that threat says a lot about him," KCK Fraternal Order of Police President Scott Kirkpatrick said.
Right after the shooting, Kirkpatrick rushed to the scene to check on his officer. He said Howell is doing well, and over the past few days, the gravity of what happened Sunday is beginning to sink in.
"There's no doubt he saved numerous lives that were inside that store," Kirkpatrick said.
Since the shooting, messages of support for Howell have been pouring in across social media. Kirkpatrick said the captain has seen the messages and appreciates the support, but he'd never call himself a hero.
"I think over time he's going to realize that there are some people who want to give him a hero's welcome, and at some point you almost have to take it," Kirkpatrick said.
Howell and the rest of the KCK Police Department have declined comment until the shooting investigation is completed.
