Idaho Medal of Honor Recipient
August 18, 2021
Officer Seferino Tapia
Caldwell Police Department

On the evening of March 28, 2020, Caldwell Police Department Patrol Officer Seferino Tapia responded to an address on Colorado Avenue following multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots. The suspect fired a gun at a woman as she was fleeing a residence. Later, the suspect forced his way into a nearby house and held those inside at gunpoint before firing a shot at a passing vehicle. A woman inside the vehicle suffered minor injuries. When officers arrived, the suspect began shooting at them with a shotgun, handgun, and a high powered rifle. The officers returned fire. Officer Tapia was in the second patrol car that arrived at the scene. Following the lead of his patrol team leader, Officer Tapia exited his vehicle and immediately returned fire. His proactive actions placed his own life in danger by drawing the suspect’s attention away from a neighbor he was threatening, likely saving her life and allowing other officers to reduce the active shooter threat. The suspect was eventually wounded and later succumbed to his injuries.

Through indomitable courage, complete disregard for his own safety, and profound concern for the safety of others, Officer Seferino Tapia showed great determination and bravery. Officer Tapia’s extraordinary heroism and intrepidity, with danger to his own life above and beyond the call of duty, are in the highest traditions of the Caldwell Police Department and Idaho law enforcement.