(Rochester, N.Y.) -- The Rochester Police Department is calling several officers "heroes" for helping their wounded colleague after he was shot.
Doctors say Anthony DiPonzio would not have survived without their efforts.
Rochester Police Chief David Moore also commended the officers who assisted on scene, saying without their immediate action, DiPonzio would have probably not survived.
- Lt. Umbrino coordinated activity at the shooting scene.
- Officer Paul Dondorfer, an EMT, held the injured officer's head to keep his airway clear, which doctors say, saved his life.
- Officer Ryan Fantigrossi drove the squad car to the hospital and made it there in minutes.
- Lt. Lesniak drove the lead car and notified the hospital en route.
- Officer Amy Pfeffer held the officer's feet in the back of the patrol car.
- Officers Mack, Marsh, Kosch, and Leckinger assisted in getting the wounded officer into the car.
Commander Jeff Clark, who oversees the East Side patrol, became emotional when talking about these officers.
"It’s quite a testament to their training their ability to handle something under pressure," Clark said. “I couldn't be prouder."
Chief Moore echoed that saying it felt like one of his sons got shot. Moore says the average seniority for city police is five to seven years. He says the five officers used their training and good judgment to save a live.
"I am so proud of these young officers," Moore said. "The care they gave to this officer gave him a chance. If not for that, we wouldn't be standing here today."
DiPonzio's family has asked that these officers received special recognition, and they are grateful for the support they have received from officers all over Monroe County, the state and country. Law enforcement officers have shown up at the hospital, brought food and said prayers.
