Sergeant helps to save life of American officer while on holiday

An off duty Kent Police sergeant has been recognised by US law enforcement for coming to the aid of one of its officers while on holiday.

PS Taylor Johanson had arrived in Nashville, Tennessee, and had just left the airport when he saw local officer, Peter Kinsey, being assaulted by a man on the side of the road.

The suspect had managed to fire one round from the officer’s gun and was attempting to get the weapon again when PS Johanson stopped his car and ran over to intervene.

During the incident, which happened at around 8pm on Wednesday 7 May 2026, the Ashford sergeant, who works in the Community Safety Unit, was able to pull the suspect away from the officer and apprehend him. Further patrols arrived and the man was arrested.

Officer Kinsey has credited PS Johanson with saving his life and said it was the closest he had come to a ‘near death experience’ while on patrol.

Following PS Johanson’s heroic intervention, he was invited to meet Chief John Drake, of the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, where he was presented with some gifts for his bravery.

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Instinct

Talking about the incident PS Johanson said:

‘I saw the officer was in trouble and my instinct just kicked in. I didn’t stop to think of the consequences or hesitate. I just jumped out and used my skills to ensure the officer was safe and the suspect was apprehended. This was supposed to be a relaxing holiday away from my children but it started off quite the opposite!’

Proud

Kent Police Chief Constable Tim Smith said:

‘PS Johanson’s bravery in intervening in this incident was second to none. As a police officer you are never truly off duty and his natural reaction to run toward danger and assist is incredible. His skills and intervention no doubt helped to save an officer’s life and we are very proud of him. He is an asset to Kent Police.’

Chief of the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, John Drake, said:

‘Our police department is beyond grateful to PS Johanson for stopping to assist Officer Kinsey, and actively engaging to subdue the man who was assaulting him. ‘The suspect had already managed to get his finger into the trigger guard and fire a round from the officer’s holstered pistol. PS Johanson miraculously appeared when Officer Kinsey needed help. I believe he likely saved our officer’s life.’