10/16/2026
Congratulations to Everett Police Detective Dan Wall, who was presented with the 2026 Hanna Award Medal of Valor by Governor Maura Healey on Wednesday for his extraordinary bravery during a dangerous incident in Everett last year!
Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll honored 18 law enforcement officers from five Massachusetts police departments at the 43rd Annual Trooper George L. Hanna Memorial Awards for Bravery. The Hanna Awards are Massachusetts' highest recognition for bravery in law enforcement, with the Medal of Valor recognizing officers whose selfless actions go above and beyond the call of duty during dangerous circumstances.
Detective Wall received this prestigious honor for his heroic actions on July 31, 2025, when a dangerous police pursuit involving an armed suspect entered Everett.
The suspect crashed an SUV into multiple vehicles on Lower Broadway before fleeing with a knife and attempting to force his way into several other vehicles. Despite efforts by responding officers to subdue him, the suspect continued running through traffic and approached a garbage truck stopped at a red light on Route 99.
When the suspect opened the driver's door while armed with a knife, Detective Wall recognized the immediate danger to the driver and discharged his fi***rm, striking the suspect.
Despite being shot, the suspect managed to climb into the truck and began struggling with the driver. Without hesitation, Detective Wall jumped into the cab and pulled the driver to safety, putting his own life at risk to save someone else's.
The suspect then drove away in the garbage truck before crashing on the Alford Street Bridge. Detective Wall and a Massachusetts State Trooper apprehended the suspect, and Detective Wall provided emergency medical aid, including applying a tourniquet to stop severe bleeding.
What makes Detective Wall's actions even more remarkable is the compassion he demonstrated afterward. According to Everett Police Chief Paul Strong, one of Detective Wall's first questions following the incident was about the condition of both the driver he rescued and the suspect.
A Marine Corps veteran and seven-year member of the Everett Police Department, Detective Wall was previously recognized by the Everett City Council with the department's Medal of Valor earlier this year.
Mayor Robert J. Van Campen, Senator Sal DiDomenico, Representative Joe McGonagle, Chief Paul Strong and members of the Everett Police Department joined in celebrating Detective Wall as he received this statewide recognition.
The City of Everett is incredibly proud of Detective Wall, whose courage, quick thinking and compassion reflect the very best of law enforcement and public service.
Congratulations on this well-deserved honor, Detective Wall, and thank you for your continued dedication to protecting the people of Everett!
