Stop the Killing

S5E2 HOMETOWN HERO

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Episode notes

Hometown Hero: Stopping a School Shooter in His Kids' School


In this gripping episode, we sit down with Tom Smith, retired NYPD detective and co-host of The Gold Shields Podcast. Tom shares a harrowing personal account of when his professional and personal worlds collided—when he had just days to stop a school shooting at his own children’s school. Tom reveals the chilling details of the threat, the investigation, and the ultimate prevention of what could have been a devastating tragedy.

Summary of Key Topics Covered:

  • Tom Smith's career in the NYPD and his transition to The Gold Shields Podcast.
  • The unexpected threat at his children's high school and the brave actions of a young student that alerted authorities.
  • How Tom's training and instincts kicked in as he worked to prevent a school shooting with only days to spare.
  • The emotional toll of balancing being a detective and a father during such a critical time.
  • Lessons learned from the case, the importance of vigilance, and how social media played a pivotal role in stopping the attack.

Guest Introduction:

  • Tom Smith: A retired NYPD detective with 30 years of experience, Tom worked on high-stakes cases, including post-9/11 terrorism investigations. He now co-hosts The Gold Shields Podcast, where he shares untold stories of law enforcement and military heroes. Learn more about Tom and his podcast.

Episode Highlights with Timestamps:

  • [00:01] Introduction to Tom Smith and his background in law enforcement.
  • [10:00] The discovery of a school shooting threat targeting Tom's children’s school.
  • [12:00] How a brave student’s actions helped prevent the attack.
  • [15:30] Tom’s investigation into the shooter and the clues that led to his arrest.
  • [20:00] The emotional toll of investigating a case that hit so close to home.
  • [28:00] How Tom and the local authorities worked together to avert the school shooting just days before it was planned.
  • [35:00] The lasting impact on the school and community, and Tom’s reflections on the importance of being vigilant.

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