Seattle Police Department Awards Community Members and Officer at SPD Headquarters

On June 10, 2026, the Seattle Police Department (SPD) recognized three community members and one officer with commendations during an awards presentation at Seattle Police Headquarters.

SPD presented Ingenuity Commendations to community members Erwin Galan, Xander Hwang, and Everly Hwang, and awarded Officer Nathan Rizzotti with a Chief’s Award Commendation.

SPD Ingenuity Commendation: Erwin Galan

Erwin Galan received an Ingenuity Commendation for assisting a domestic violence victim on the night before Thanksgiving. After the victim’s partner took her car keys and threw them into the darkness, Galan remained with her until officers arrived. He then helped officers search for the keys using his cellphone flashlight.

When officers located the keys hanging from a tree branch out of reach, Galan briefly left and returned with a football, a lacrosse ball, and a golf ball. A responding officer used the football to dislodge the keys, allowing them to be recovered. Unfortunately, the football became stuck in the tree, but Galan never hesitated and was more concerned about helping a stranger get home safely.

SPD recognized Galan for his compassion, creativity, and selfless service.

SPD Ingenuity Commendation: Xander and Everly Hwang

Xander and Everly received Ingenuity Commendations for their contributions to the Blue Hero Project, a nonprofit organization that supports law enforcement officers and their families throughout the Pacific Northwest.

The siblings, ages 8 and 9, are the children of Blue Hero Project founder Diane Hwang and have become an important part of the organization. They regularly assist with the organization’s outreach efforts, including helping prepare care packages and appreciation gifts for officers.

Earlier this year, they created individual Lifesaver packs for officers during North Precinct Officer Appreciation Day.

SPD recognized Xander and Everly Hwang for their generosity, positive attitude, and commitment to supporting officers and the community.

SPD Chief’s Commendation: Officer Nathan Rizzotti  

Officer Nathan Rizzotti received a Chief’s Commendation for his actions during a domestic violence incident on June 20, 2025.

Officers Rizzotti responded as the only available South Precinct officer after dispatch broadcast a priority one domestic violence call. Initial reports indicated an assault, but updates revealed the suspect had pinned a woman to the ground and was actively strangling her. Recognizing the immediate danger to the victim, Rizzotti moved to locate the suspect before backup officers arrived.  

When the suspect fled, Rizzotti pursued him through a wooded area. The suspect violently resisted arrest, assaulted the officer, and, despite repeated TASER deployments, continued to run. During the pursuit, the suspect produced a gun and fired at Rizzotti. The officer immediately sought cover and relayed information over the radio. After additional resources arrived, Rizzotti remained actively involved in the search. Officers later located and arrested the suspect.

SPD determined Rizzotti’s actions likely prevented further violence against the victim and demonstrated exceptional courage under life-threatening circumstances.

The Seattle Police Department honored all four recipients for their dedication, service and commitment to improving public safety.