On Oct. 12, 2022, tragedy struck the city of Bristol. 

Residents heard the sounds of gunshots ringing from Redstone Hill.

Followed by the sound of sirens from all over the city.

Then the whirring of the Life Star helicopter blades growing stronger as it looped around Forestville before landing at Bristol Hospital.  

On Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022, Lt. Dustin Demonte, Sgt. Alex Hamzy and Officer Alec Iurato responded to a 911 call that reported “possible domestic violence” between two siblings. Upon arrival at 310 Redstone Hill Rd., the officers were ambushed by shooter Nicholas Brutcher in a pre-planned attack. 

The shooter attacked the officers from behind, fatally shooting both Lt. DeMonte and Sgt. Hamzy. Officer Iurato, despite suffering serious injuries, was able to make his way back to a Bristol Police Department Cruiser to fire one gunshot, killing the shooter.

The loss of Lt. Dustin Demonte and Sgt. Alex Hamzy sent shockwaves of grief through the city.

_{^{Left: Community members gather at the vigil on Oct,.14, 2022. Right: Messages written by visitors to the Memorial in front of the Bristol Police Station. | Laura Bailey}}

Residents gathered in solemn vigils to pay their respects to the fallen officers. Flags flew at half-mast, businesses displayed blue ribbons to show their support for the Bristol Police Department. Residents throughout the city replaced their porch light with blue light bulbs to honor their memories. 

Community members placed flowers, candles, crosses, notes and ribbons in front of the Police Department. The memorial grew to become a national destination for those who wanted to pay their respects to two men who were tragically taken from their families, friends and the community too soon. 

The memorial stood through rain, wind and snow from Oct. 13, 2022 to Jan. 23, 2023 before it was moved indoors. 

It has been a year since a senseless act of violence claimed the lives of Lt. Demonte and Sgt. Hamzy, two men who were much more than law enforcement officers to our community. They were mentors to our children and friends to those who needed a friend. 

The city of Bristol will forever remember and honor the heroic actions of these officers. Their dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the Bristol Community remembered every day.

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