On January 5, 2025, Officer Brendon Gallagher of the Suffolk County Police Department attempted to stop a vehicle for reckless driving when the suspect collided with his patrol car. The impact forced Officer Gallagher off the road and into the adjacent woods at a high speed. His vehicle struck a tree, trapping him inside.
Officer Gallagher sustained severe injuries and spent 20 days in the hospital, including nine days in a coma. His injuries included a torn aorta and a torn abdominal wall. Fortunately, his Safariland® SX02 Level II armor, worn in an M2 carrier, provided critical protection to his torso and helped reduce the severity of his traumatic injuries.
The suspect was convicted and sentenced to 10 years in prison. Officer Gallagher continues to undergo physical therapy and remains hopeful about returning to full duty in the future.
We welcome Officer Brendon Gallagher as Save #2274 to The Safariland Group Saves Club®.