HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) — Harrisonburg Police Department Sergeant Brian Tusing, Officer John A. Denneny, Officer Alaina C. McWhorter and Officer Rose Mary Nuno were presented with the 2024 Award for Valor from the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police (VACP) on Tuesday, August 27, for their actions responding to a domestic disturbance involving a firearm and abduction of a woman in May 2023.

The four responded to an incident on May 6, 2023, where an armed suspect had forced a woman into his vehicle and fled. Officers pursued the suspect to Liberty Street, where they were able to stop the vehicle.

As Tusing breached the driver’s side window, the suspect opened fire on officers. While the suspect was distracted by the officers returning fire, McWhorter and Nuno were able to help the victim to safety, ultimately saving her life. The suspect then opened fire directly at Denneny, and all four officers returned fire, striking the suspect. No officers were injured in the encounter.  Although the suspect had just fired shots at officers, they immediately began rendering aid, saving his life. The victim also was able to walk away from the incident without any injuries.

“Their adept handling of the situation displayed their quick thinking, training and professionalism under extreme pressure,” HPD Interim Chief Todd Miller said. “Tusing, Denneny, McWhorter and Nuno showed an unwavering commitment to community safety and security through their selfless acts of service, just as HPD officers strive to do every day. Their actions on May 6, 2023, and every day show their commitment to Harrisonburg and protecting and serving its community members. We are immensely proud of our officers and thankful to the VACP for recognizing their hard work.”