Oxford recognizes corporal Allen and K9 Halligan for bravery during 2023 shooting

The Oxford Board of Commissioners on May 12 read a proclamation recognizing Corporal Daniel Allen and his K9 partner, Halligan, for actions during a May 5, 2023 incident that left both injured.

Interim Police Chief Tim Hayworth presented a plaque of bravery and described the sequence: officers responded to a welfare check on Prospect Avenue, came under fire, and coordinated a rescue that located and removed Corporal Allen and Halligan from a life‑threatening scene. Hayworth said Halligan sustained multiple gunshot wounds and underwent surgeries and that Allen likewise required extensive medical care. "When you go above and beyond that call of duty, that purple heart comes into play," Hayworth said as he presented the department’s recognition.

Corporal Daniel Allen addressed the board and thanked responding officers, paramedics and family members who assisted during the incident. He thanked specific colleagues by name for their efforts in locating and transporting him to safety and for supporting his recovery. "I wanna thank the police department, you know, I'll always have love for you guys," Allen said, expressing appreciation for the teams who cared for Halligan and for the community support he received.

Mayor and commissioners took turns praising the department and asked the public to observe National Police Week. The board’s proclamation was entered into the record and a plaque honoring Allen and Halligan was placed with the official documents.

The presentation closed with the board’s formal proclamation recognizing the service and sacrifice of officers and their families during National Police Week; the city will observe May 11–16, 2026 with related acknowledgements.