Rep. Mike Thompson is with Officer Matthew Bowen's mother, Becky; father, Marc; brother, Jonathan; partner, Mateo; and Captains Dave Kellis and Bryan Larsen of the Vacaville Police Department accepting on behalf of Officer Bowen. Courtesy photo

SOLANO COUNTY, CA (MPG) – On Feb. 16, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) announced Officer Mathew Bowen, Emergency Medical Technician Michael “Mike” Robinson and Canine Officer Murph as the 2025 Solano County Public Safety Heroes.

Every year, Thompson honors first responders who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in our community.

“Our first responders go above and beyond to protect and serve the communities they call home. I am proud to recognize many of the public safety heroes in our district who go the extra mile to keep us safe,” said Thompson. “Officer Mathew Bowen made the ultimate sacrifice to our community, tragically losing his life in the line of duty. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Michael Robinson exemplified the best of public service through his leadership and quick decision making while saving the life of a gunshot victim. Canine Officer Murph displayed courage and sacrifice when shot in the paw while serving a high-risk arrest warrant, leading to the amputation of his leg. They have all made great sacrifices in the name of our community and I am proud to honor them here today.”

Canine Officer Cade is with handler Officer Alex Eustler and Lt. Rob Myers, accepting on behalf of Canine Officer Murph. Courtesy photo

Officer Bowen graduated from the Napa Police Academy in 2019 before working for the Concord Police Department and eventually joining the Vacaville Police Department in 2023. He was tragically killed in 2024 during a traffic stop. Officer Bowen is remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, work ethic and unwavering calm under pressure. He truly exemplified the highest ideals of law enforcement, service, integrity and sacrifice. His legacy of courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

In 2024, EMT Robinson, who was on duty with an intern, was dispatched to a call for a victim of a gunshot wound. Upon arrival at the scene, EMT Robinson quickly assessed the patient’s condition, deciding that they must administer a needle thoracostomy. Under his guidance, the intern completed the procedure, saving the patient and leading them to eventually make a full recovery. Mr. Robinson also mentors and teaches incoming EMT interns and helps them obtain their paramedic licenses. His commitment to community and leadership in training the next generation of paramedics is admirable.

Officer Murph serves with his partner, Officer Chad Hudson, as the Vacaville Police Department’s senior K-9 team. Although his favorite duties include visiting elementary school students, he has participated in a great number of arrests. In January, Officer Murph was shot in the paw while assisting with a high-risk arrest warrant, eventually requiring the amputation of his leg. Officer Murph is currently recovering from his injuries. K-9 Murph’s bravery and sacrifice make it “pawsible” for our community to remain safe.

Rep. Thompson is with Emergency Medical Technician Mike Robinson. Courtesy photo

Officer Bowen, EMT Robinson, and Officer Murph displayed courage, commitment, and bravery in their duties to their community. Their sacrifices benefit all of us and Congressman Thompson is honored to recognize them today.

Congressman Mike Thompson is proud to represent California’s 4th Congressional District, which includes all or part of Lake, Napa, Solano, Sonoma and Yolo Counties. He is a senior member of the House Committee on Ways and Means. Rep. Thompson is chairman of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. He is also co-chair of the bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Wine Caucus and a member of the fiscally-responsible Blue Dog Coalition.