Boston Police Officer Shot in Leg Lauded as Hero

A Boston Police officer who was shot in the leg Friday, now in stable condition, is being praised by the department as a hero.

Officer Kurt Stokinger, a veteran member of the city's drug unit, is at Boston Municipal Hospital, continuing to recover after this brazen attack.

It's a beat that Officer Kurt Stokinger is used to - targeting illegal drugs and weapons. Friday, though, he faced a man who has a long history with both.

"Our officers lay their lives on the line every day they go out, and our job has not gotten any easier," Boston Police Commissioner William Evans said.

Police say 27-year-old Grant Headley took off after he was pulled over near Mt. Bowdoin Terrace in Dorchester. Headley allegedly turned around and shot Stokinger in the leg.

The 9-year veteran officer was able to use a tourniquet on his own leg and, with the help of another officer, it likely saved his limb and his life.

"We are the targets, and that's wrong. We are the men and women who are out there protecting you and the public should not stand for this," said Pat Rose, president of the Patrolmen Association.

Stokingner has been commended in the past for helping to take drugs and illegal weapons off the street. In 2014, he received an award, and Evans says he was about to receive another.

"He's a hero, because he's out there doing God's work," said Evans.

Stokinger, who is from South Boston, has two young children - a 7-year-old son and a 4-year-old daughter to whom Boston Police say, thankfully, he will soon return home.

"I just want to pass along my prayers for a speedy recovery and to ask everyone to remember to appreciate our police department in the city of Boston," Mayor Marty Walsh said.

Contact Us