'Hero' Police Officer 'Saved Lives' During Mall Stabbing

Former Albany, Minnesota Police Chief Jason Falconer is being called a hero after shooting and killing the suspect in the St. Cloud mall stabbing that injured at least ten people.

Falconer currently works as a part-time officer with the Avon Police Department.

"As somebody who has had the chance to witness the surveillance tape in Macy's and witnessed what he did, he clearly prevented additional injuries and potentially loss of life," St. Cloud Mayor Dave Kleis said of Falconer's actions

"His heroic actions are exemplary."

Authorities have identified the suspect as Dahir Ahmed Adan, a 20-year-old male from St. Cloud. After Falconer identified himself as a police officer, Adan lunged at Falconer with a knife.

Falconer fired once, and the Adan went down. Adan got up and lunged at Falconer a second time before he shot him again. Adan lunged at Falconer again before he fired a third and final shot that authorities say killed the suspect.

"Clearly a hero," Kleis said.

"Officer Falconer was there at the right time, at the right place."

Police say Adan injured at least ten people before he was shot by Falconer.

St. Cloud Police Chief William Anderson said “this could have been much, much worse” if not for Falconer’s actions.

KSTP reported that both President Barack Obama and Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton spoke to Falconer by phone Monday.

"We are very grateful no one lost their life. Thanks to the brave action of the off-duty officer, the suspect was killed and we avoided more people being hurt," Obama said.

Dayton said in a statement Sunday that he is “deeply grateful to the heroic law enforcement officer, whose swift response prevented an even worse attack.”

U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar also extended her gratitude, saying, “While we will learn more about the facts surrounding this horrific attack today, one thing we know for certain this morning: Due to the courageous actions of an off-duty area police officer, the good work of first responders, and the reaction of those present at the mall, lives were saved.”

Falconer has worked as a part-time police officer since 2007. He also works as Avon's firearms training officer.

The Star Tribune reported that Falconer has also assisted St. Cloud State University with law enforcement training “in the disciplines of decision shooting and dynamic entry."

Falconer says his training could also benefit “responsible citizens” who find themselves in life-threatening situations.

Following Saturday's mall attack, Falconer says he's keeping his distance from the investigation and doesn't want to impede.

“I’ve been trying to stay away from it all, for the time being,” he said.

Image via Avon Police Department