A Muskingum County Sergeant was recognized for heroic service at staff breakfast

ZANESVILLE, OH- A longtime school resource officer got a surprise of his own this morning as Tri-Valley Local Schools kicked off the new year. Staff gathered for their annual breakfast expecting Sergeant Brad Gearhart simply to introduce the district’s newest school resource officer. Instead, he was the one being recognized for a decade of service and for acts of bravery that saved lives earlier this year.

The breakfast was held in the high school cafetorium and catered by Theos. The morning began with opening remarks from Superintendent Henderson. That’s when Gearhart learned the real reason he was there. On May 7, he was the first responder to a house fire at the home of Mark and Jody Pape. He pulled both residents to safety, then became the first law enforcement officer on scene when an Adamsville Fire Department truck rolled over while responding to the same blaze.

“It means a lot from my peers, it means they enjoy me here, they want me here,” said Muskingum County Sergeant Brad Gearhart.

Gearhart has spent the past 10 years as a school resource officer in the district.

“I’ve been doing this for 23 years now… I’ve always enjoyed helping others, helping people out, it is not about the recognition, I’ve always been one who likes to stay in the back but get the things done,” said Gearhart.

This morning’s recognition made one thing clear. Gearhart’s presence and quick actions have left a lasting mark on the Tri-Valley community.