Bradenton Police Dispatch Team Earns Florida APCO Team of the Year Honor
Three Bradenton Police Department public safety telecommunicators have been recognized by the Florida Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials as the 2026 Team of the Year for their actions during a deadly January shooting that led to a swift arrest and lifesaving response.
Michele Lana, Christa Wengerd and Luana “Rosy” Bernal received the statewide honor for their coordinated efforts during a critical incident on Jan. 15, 2026, when a gunman opened fire inside a medical office. The shooting left one woman dead and another critically injured.
Bernal answered the first 911 call from a witness at the scene. While calming the caller, she gathered vital information and relayed details to responding officers, helping establish an early understanding of the unfolding emergency.
Lana handled a second call from another witness near the scene, collecting additional information that was quickly shared among responding agencies. Authorities credited that information with helping lead to the suspect’s arrest within 25 minutes of the shooting.
Meanwhile, Wengerd managed a third call from an individual providing aid to the victims. She maintained communication with the caller while directing officers to the precise location of those needing assistance.
The Florida APCO award recognizes exceptional teamwork, professionalism and performance under pressure. Officials said the dispatchers’ coordinated response played a critical role in helping first responders locate the victims, apprehend the suspect and bring the dangerous situation to a rapid conclusion.
The Bradenton Police Department congratulated the three telecommunicators, praising their composure, communication skills and dedication to public safety during one of the city’s most challenging emergencies of the year.
