Central ND News

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) delivered a speech on the Senate floor to commemorate National Police Week and honor TOP COP award recipient Fargo Police Officer Zachary Robinson. The award was given in recognition of Officer Robinson's heroism and bravery during an ambush while investigating a traffic crash last summer.

Officer Robinson is the first member of North Dakota’s law enforcement community to receive this prestigious recognition. He and his wife were present in the Senate Gallery during Senator Cramer’s speech.

“On July 14, 2023, nearly a year ago, Officer Robinson was one of four officers to respond to a routine fender bender," said Senator Cramer. As they were wrapping up their handling of the accident, Officer Robinson moved his police vehicle out of the street when an unrelated shooter ambushed them, firing at both officers and bystanders. The shooter hit three fellow officers, killing Officer Jake Wallin and gravely injuring Officers Andrew Dotas and Tyler Hawes.

"Officer Robinson was literally the last man standing, but he did not hesitate as he moved toward – not away from – but toward gunfire," continued Senator Cramer. His swift action put himself between the shooter and innocent bystanders, ultimately fatally wounding the assailant.

Evidence collected revealed that the shooter had a fixation on mass shooting events and likely intended to perpetrate an attack at a large event like the Downtown Fargo Street Fair or in the Red River Valley Fair.

“We will likely never know how many lives he saved that day, but his actions will never be forgotten by the Fargo community or the state of North Dakota," said Senator Cramer.

Senator Cramer further highlighted Officer Robinson's story as an example of why society must 'back the blue,' supporting officers not just in words but also through actions and deeds. He emphasized that National Police Week is an opportunity to honor officers like Zach who risk their lives daily for community safety, and to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

The Senator concluded his speech by acknowledging the real-world impacts of police service, reminding everyone that every officer lost is a family member taken too soon. He ended with words of gratitude and support for all law enforcement officers for their everyday heroism.