Dixon Residents Honored for Heroic Act in Knife Incident

Two residents of Dixon, Illinois, received commendations for their courageous actions during a life-threatening incident that occurred on September 3, 2023. Hayden Sweet and Jeremey Hunter were awarded the Award of Valor by Dixon Police Chief Ryan Bivins at a city council meeting on September 15. The pair intervened when a man brandishing a knife chased another individual at Huffy’s Marathon gas station located at 707 N. Galena Ave.

According to a news release from the Dixon Police Department, the suspect, Ian O. Dunbar, 27, faces multiple charges, including aggravated battery and aggravated assault. Dunbar is currently being held at the Lee County Jail and was denied pretrial release following a detention hearing on September 4. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on September 17.

On the day of the incident, police responded to a report of a disturbance involving a knife around 10:30 a.m.. Before officers arrived, Hunter and Sweet played a crucial role in deescalating the volatile situation. Deputy Chief Aaron Simonton noted that such bravery is rare in today’s society, where many bystanders might record events rather than intervene.

Hunter, who heard screams near his home, witnessed a man with a knife pursuing another individual. He ran towards the gas station, where he found both parties engaged in a heated situation. Sweet, on his way to work, also spotted the altercation and quickly exited his vehicle to assist. Simonton reported that Sweet tackled the armed individual, injuring his hand in the process while trying to seize the knife. Hunter provided crucial support, ultimately disarming Dunbar.

In a remarkable display of humanity, Hunter managed to calm Dunbar to the extent that the suspect consented to a hug. This moment underscored Hunter’s compassionate approach amidst chaos. Remarkably, no one else was injured during the confrontation.

During the council meeting, Chief Bivins shared video footage from the gas station’s security camera, showing Sweet subduing Dunbar while Hunter kicked the knife away. Simonton praised the two men, stating, “It is not every day a citizen is faced with a possible life-threatening incident that could put them in harm’s way to defend someone they’ve never met before. You answered the call, which is a testament to your character and bravery.”

The actions of Sweet and Hunter not only prevented a potentially violent outcome but also exemplified selflessness in service to others. Their response has garnered respect and gratitude from the community, highlighting the impact that ordinary citizens can have in critical situations.