Published on October 04, 2016
Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Morris County Prosecutor's Office Chief of Investigations John R. Speirs announce that The United States' Department of Justice, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) honored Morris County Prosecutor's Office Detective Michael Puskas with a Life Saving Award for his heroic efforts following the Boston Marathon Bombings in 2013. Detective Puskas was recognized for his performance during the 20th Annual ATF Awards Ceremony held on August 25, 2016 at the ATF National Headquarters in Washington, DC, and received the award on September 29, 2016 at the ATF Newark Field Office.
Prior to joining the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Detective Michael Puskas was employed as a Special Agent with the ATF, serving as a Tactical Medic in the Special Operations Division. Shortly after the Boston Marathon Bombings occurred, law enforcement conducted an extensive search for one of the two suspects identified as Dzhokhar Tsarnaev. The search ended several days later when the injured suspect was located hiding inside a boat. The suspect was subsequently removed from the boat by law enforcement personnel when Special Agent Michael Puskas and his partner, not knowing if the suspect was personally armed with an explosive device, administered life-saving first aid. The suspect was then transported to the hospital, where he survived his injuries. His survival enabled investigators to ultimately obtain significant information regarding details leading up to the attack.
Prosecutor Knapp stated, "Detective Puskas disregarded his own safety to render life-saving aid. His actions allowed authorities to discover the motives behind this despicable terrorist act and to successfully prosecute Tsarnaev. I am proud to serve with Mike Puskas."
Inquiries concerning this press release should be directed to Public Information Officer Paul Merkler at pressinquiry@co.morris.nj.us or 973-285-6215.