Nestor Santos : "Support Officer Santos: Concert Fundraiser"

– Officer Nestor Santos fundraiser concert
– Support Officer Nestor Santos benefit concert.

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

EAST LONGMEADOW, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) – The Springfield police officer wounded in Wednesday’s shooting rampage has been identified as Nestor Santos. His fellow officers and the local community are coming together to support him and his family during this challenging time.

Thousands of pounds have been raised by the Greg Hill Foundation to assist with Santos’ medical bills. Additionally, a fundraising event is being planned at a local tavern in East Longmeadow later this month to further aid Santos and his loved ones.

Despite the tragic events, the community is rallying together to provide assistance to Santos and his family as they navigate through this difficult period.

Recovery and Support

Officer Santos is currently recuperating in a hospital in the Boston area after sustaining gunshot wounds to his face and leg. The injuries have left him potentially blind in one eye, with a bullet fragment lodged in his skull.

Expressing gratitude, a lawyer commented, “We are thankful that the outcome was not more severe. It is fortunate that the officer is expected to recover, albeit with the loss of an eye, and that the transportation worker involved is also expected to be okay.”

Five of the seven suspects believed to be involved in the shooting incident appeared in court, where they were met by a sea of law enforcement personnel, including Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni.

Reflecting on the situation, Gulluni stated, “The response has been emotional. It has been less than 48 hours, and the officer will face significant challenges due to his injuries. The law enforcement community is grateful for the support received, although emotions are understandably high.”

Officer Santos’ Service

Officer Santos has served with the Springfield Police Department for seven years. In 2022, he was awarded a Medal of Valor for his role in apprehending a suspect who was firing at officers. Additionally, he received a Life-Saving Medal for rescuing a child from drowning in 2015 while serving in Southbridge.

He is married with three children, including a son who is also a police officer with the Southbridge Police Department.

Community Support

Following the incident, the community has rallied around Officer Santos and his family. The Greg Hill Foundation launched a fundraiser that has raised over £17,500 to date.

John Sullivan, owner of East Village Tavern and a fundraiser for Ride to Remember, announced that an upcoming fundraising event originally planned to support the Ride to Remember will now donate all proceeds to Santos and his family.

Sullivan shared, “We have arranged for live music by Otan Vargas, a talented musician from New York. It is important to demonstrate community support through events like this, not only to show solidarity with Officer Santos and his family, but also to honour law enforcement as a whole.”

The fundraising event is scheduled for June 20th.