University Circle Officer Saves Same Man Twice in 2 Days, Earns National Award

Patrol Officer Joe Fazio awarded Life Saving Award from American Police Hall of Fame

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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University Circle Patrol Officer Joe Fazio has been awarded the prestigious Life Saving Award from the American Police Hall of Fame after saving the same man from taking his own life on two consecutive days in January 2026.

Why it matters

This case highlights the critical role of police officers in de-escalating mental health crises and the importance of providing comprehensive support services for individuals struggling with suicidal ideation. It also underscores the heroism and dedication of officers like Fazio who go above and beyond to protect the most vulnerable members of their community.

The details

On January 16, Fazio responded to a report of a suicidal man on the eighth floor of the Veterans Administration employee parking garage. Through skilled de-escalation and building a rapport, Fazio talked the man down from the ledge. The following day, the same man returned to the same location with the same intentions, and Fazio again responded, de-escalated the situation, and took the man into protective custody.

  • On January 16, 2026, Fazio responded to a report of a suicidal man on the eighth floor of the VA parking garage.
  • On January 17, 2026, the same man returned to the same location with the same intentions, and Fazio again responded.

The players

Joe Fazio

University Circle Patrol Officer who received the Life Saving Award from the American Police Hall of Fame for his heroic actions.

Tim Caine

Sergeant who submitted the award nomination for Fazio, praising his de-escalation skills and ability to build rapport with the individual in crisis.

Captain Smith

Supervisor who monitored the UCPD dispatch that received the initial report of the suicidal man.

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What they’re saying

“Ptl. Fazio did an excellent job with his de-escalation skills and his ability to build a rapport with this male who was clearly in crisis.”

— Sgt. Tim Caine, Supervisor (UCPD)

“This is the 2nd time in 2 days Ptl. Fazio did an exemplary job in a tense and volatile situation with an individual in crisis.”

— Sgt. Tim Caine, Supervisor (UCPD)

What’s next

The American Police Hall of Fame will formally present the Life Saving Award to Officer Fazio at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. next month.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical importance of police officers being trained in de-escalation techniques and mental health crisis intervention to effectively respond to individuals in distress and prevent tragic outcomes. It also highlights the heroism and dedication of officers like Fazio who go above and beyond to protect the most vulnerable members of their community.