Watertown Police Hero Who Took Down Marathon Bomber Retires After 30 Years
Watertown Police Sergeant John MacLellan, who has been internationally recognized for his heroic acts during the pursuit of the Boston Marathon bombers, has retired after 30 years on the force.
Many came to honor MacLellan yesterday, lining the streets of Watertown, as he finished his last shift.
This hero was one of the officers who, just days after the bombings, was in a standoff with the Tsarnaev brothers back in April of 2013, in Watertown. Who could forget watching the heroics unfold on television? Shots were fired at MacLellan’s windshield and a bullet even struck his headrest. He persevered and managed to take down Tamerlan Tsarnaev.
According to Police Chief Michael Lawn, as relayed in a Boston 25 report, the battle was long and challenging. He said, “In those back streets of Watertown, those officers were in a long, seven and a half minute gun battle, and those three officers that were there that night are still working tonight, still working here today all of them on the night shift too.”
As for MacLellan, he tries not to think about it too much, as hard as it is to forget. What’s next for the hero recognized around the world for his bravery? He’s not done helping his Watertown community. He plans on working more with his church, St. Patricks, during retirement.
How do we begin to say thank you, to the man who has dedicated his life to serve and protect his community? We appreciate all you have done, Sergeant MacLellan. Enjoy your retirement!
Watertown Police Sgt. John MacLellan, who was involved in shootout with Boston Marathon bombers, retires after 30 Years https://t.co/mJeD7WZXsZ
— masslivenews (@masslivenews) May 27, 2020
A strong salute by the @WatertownPD today as one of their sergeants retired from the force after 30 years! 👮♂️
— Litsa Pappas (@LitsaPappas) May 27, 2020
This Sergeant was one of the few officers who took down a Boston Marathon bombing suspect in a shootout in Watertown.
Watch how he was honored at 10! @boston25 pic.twitter.com/MgIRZb1mNF
