Blue Line Unlimited Recognizes 3 North Canton Officers for Heroic Actions

Officers from the North Canton Police Department were honored with the Blue Line Unlimited Act of Valor Award at the Outdoorsmen for Officers Banquet.

The presentation was introduced by Mike Hutson, a member of Blue Line Unlimited’s Executive Committee, who welcomed the officers and set the stage for the recognition. The events of that day were then detailed by the department’s chief, who walked attendees through the intensity and danger of the situation, highlighting the courage and quick thinking displayed by those involved.

Blue Line Unlimited proudly recognized Sergeant Cody Dollinger, Sergeant Adam Knam, and Officer Michael Foltz for their extraordinary actions during a life-threatening active shooter incident on October 9, 2025.

What began as a routine medical call at the Versailles Gardens Apartments in North Canton quickly escalated into a dangerous and rapidly evolving situation involving active gunfire and a critically injured victim.

Arriving among the first on scene, the officers made immediate entry into the apartment complex, where they located a female victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. As emergency medical personnel entered to provide aid, gunfire suddenly resumed—placing officers, medics, and the victim in immediate and grave danger.

Faced with an active threat and no clear path to safety, the officers acted without hesitation.

In a decisive and courageous move, Sgt. Dollinger forcibly removed a bedroom window, creating a critical escape route. Under continued gunfire, Sgt. Knam, Officer Foltz, and a medic worked together to lift the wounded victim through the window. Sgt. Dollinger then carried her to safety—actions that ultimately saved her life.

The suspect was later taken into custody without further incident, and remarkably, no responding personnel were injured.

The Act of Valor Award is reserved for those who demonstrate exceptional courage in the face of immediate danger, and the actions of these officers exemplify that standard in every sense. Their bravery, teamwork, and quick thinking under fire not only preserved life—but served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who stand on the front lines every day.