Worcester Livery Driver Receives Award for Bravery

Sunday, September 13, 2015

GoLocalWorcester News Team

On Friday, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security presented the 14th annual Madeline Amy Sweeney Award for Civilian Bravery to Worcester resident Albeiro Gomez.

The award exemplifies the selfless spirit of Madeline Amy Sweeney, who risked her personal safety to save others on September 11, 2001.

“Albeiro Gomez acted quickly and without regard for his own safety to save the life of a mother and her baby who were in grave danger,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Fourteen years after one of the darkest days in our nation’s history, it is inspiring to see that Madeline Sweeney’s spirit and legacy live on in the actions of Albeiro and countless other heroes around the Commonwealth and our country.”

Gomez, a livery driver, thwarted the kidnapping of a mother and daughter by an armed suspect last year. On July 20, 2014, Gomez was hired to take the kidnapper and his captives to Springfield. When State Police Trooper Joseph Hilton pulled Gomez' vehicle over and ordered the suspect to exit the car, Gomez lunged over the seat and grabbed for the suspect's gun - allowing time for the mother and daughter to flee the vehicle.

State troopers converged on the suspect and at the end of a struggle, the suspect was arrested and a .22 caliber handgun was seized. During the fight, Trooper Thomas Clardy was hit in the face by the suspect.

Both mother and child were unharmed during the incident.