It was New Year’s Eve seven years ago when ATF agent John Capano went into a Long Island pharmacy to pick up a prescription for his dad.
A robbery was in progress. Agent Capano tried to intervene, chasing the suspect into the street.
The two fought as the suspect tried to grab Capano’s weapon, causing the gun to go off. At the same time, a retired police lieutenant and a deli owner were rushing over to help.
The police lieutenant mistakenly thought Agent Capano was a gunman and fired, killing him. The robber then grabbed Capano’s gun and was also shot by the off-duty officer.
Capano was posthumously awarded the Medal of Valor by President Barack Obama for his efforts that New Year’s Eve to try to help and save others.
Capano left behind a wife and two daughters. ATF NY officials said they continue to remember his “courage, honor and selflessness.”
“John Capano made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty protecting his community. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with his family, and all those who served with him at ATF,” said Ashan Benedict, ATF Special Agent In Charge, NY Field Office.
