Heroes who saved HCC police officer honored at HCC Board of Trustees meeting
Oct 23, 2015
The October meeting of the Houston Community College Board of Trustees was filled with emotion when the chancellor, board members, and the HCC Police Department honored the men and women who saved HCC Police Officer April Pikes from a personal attack. The first responders are members of the Houston Police Department, Houston Fire Department, and a Good Samaritan who was at the right place at the right time.
“These were the people who were there that night, but there are hundreds more to thank, including those who helped Officer Pikes with her recovery,” said Chief Greg Cunningham, HCC Police Department. “I cannot tell you how much I appreciate it.”
On April 28, Officer Pikes was working an extra security job at the Meyerland Walmart when a suspect stabbed her multiple times. Officer Pikes, an HCC Police Academy graduate, is back on active duty with the HCC PD and during the Board of Trustees meeting, got the chance to personally thank her heroes.
“I felt very happy to see everyone who took a part in saving my life,” said Officer Pikes. “I was almost speechless, it was a relief to actually get to see them for the first time.”
Abe Baker is the civilian who witnessed the attack. He rushed over to help Officer Pikes and stop the suspect, who is behind bars charged with attempted capital murder of a police officer.
“I didn’t have time to think. Out of instinct, I just had to jump into action,” said Baker. “I have never done a heroic act before—saving someone’s life.”
Officer Pikes says she is overwhelmed with joy from the show of support and compassion and plans to continue working extra security jobs.
“I didn’t really expect for so many people to send in letters and messages to me,” she said. “Their best wishes and prayers to get better, you know even the donations. I was surprised. I am thankful. I believe everyone’s prayers are what helped motivate me to get back to work and back to this point.”
See photos of the first responders who were recognized for their bravery.