NEWS 28 - Mesa Highway Patrol Trooper Ron Nickelson is being called a hero, not only by his colleagues, but by the Alden Police Department, Alden County Sheriff's Office, State Governor and Attorney Generals Office.
Trooper Nickelson, who of course, took the fatal shot that killed felon and hostage taker Ryan Kleymer, after he raised his AR-15 at troopers and a group of Alden PD Officers.
"We are thankful for the quick actions of Trooper Nickelson," said Commissioner Donaldson. "He saved a lot of lives taking that shot. He will be heavily supported throughout this upcoming trial."
Other agencies and departments that were at the scene have all concluded the same, especially the Alden Police Department, who had officers that could've been killed without Trooper Nickelson's quick actions.
"Our department owes a debt of gratitude to Trooper Nickelson. Not only did he save the hostage, but he saved well over 10 lives," said Alden PD Chief Matin Yager. "I believe that he will not only get off, he should be honored for his incredible decision making skills."
Alden County Sheriff Bert Abbot also extended his thanks to Trooper Nickelson for saving a few of his Deputies.
Governor Kirk Paul has also expressed how proud and grateful he was to have Trooper Nickelson on the Mesa Highway Patrol Team. He said that Trooper Nickelson will be honored for saving many people.
"It makes me proud that my Troopers have, day in and day out, successfully manage to keep the residents of our great state safe. Not only keeping us safe, but the quick thinking of Trooper Ron Nickelson of the Alden Division of the MHP," said Governor Paul. "It is troopers like him that exemplify what it means to be MHP Trooper. Our state is grateful for his dedication to service and the courage to keep us all safe."
The Alden Police Department has invited him to receive a medal of valor for his service and for keeping Alden Officers safe from Kleymer. He has accepted after approval from his supervisors, who were unopposed to him receiving the awards.