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Conservation officer who responded to Grand Blanc shooting presented with DNR awards
May 13, 2026
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources proudly recognized Conservation Officer Luke Robare with two awards at Wednesday’s meeting of the Michigan Natural Resources Commission in Gaylord.
Robare received a Medal of Valor and a Lifesaving Award for actions that neutralized the threat to public safety during a tragic and violent attack Sept. 28, 2025, in Grand Blanc Township.
That day, a devastating act of violence unfolded at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when an assailant drove a vehicle into the building, opened fire on worshippers and set the church ablaze.
“Today, as the State presented the Medal of Valor to Conservation Officer Luke Robare, we honor not only his heroism but also the enduring strength and resilience of a community forever changed,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “His actions and willingness to risk his life stand as powerful reminders of the courage displayed daily by law enforcement officers across Michigan who serve to protect others.”
Robare was driving between bodies of water, conducting fishing patrol when dispatch communicated to law enforcement about an active shooter. He arrived on the scene within minutes of the call and, without hesitation, advanced toward the threat and quickly neutralized the situation to prevent additional loss of life.
“Officer Robare’s composure under extreme pressure and his swift judgment exemplify the very highest standards conservation officers train for,” said Chief Brandon Kieft, DNR Law Enforcement Division. “His actions reflect the dedication to the oath sworn to protect and serve the people of Michigan. While the primary role of a conservation officer is to protect natural resources, we are trained law enforcement officers with statewide jurisdiction and are ready to respond to any situation.”
Robare has been a conservation officer since 2018 and patrols Genesee County.
Grand Blanc Township Police Officer Jason Carpentier arrived on the scene moments after Robare and was essential in addressing the immediate threat.
“This is a commanding example of how law enforcement agencies are trained to support one another,” Kieft said.
In March, the Grand Blanc Township Police Department posted on its Facebook page that Carpentier received three department awards: 2025 Employee of the Year, Police Medal of Honor and a Life Saving Award. Carpentier and Robare also were recognized during Gov. Whitmer’s State of the State address in February.
Michigan DNR conservation officers are fully licensed law enforcement officers who provide natural resources protection, ensure recreational safety, and protect residents through general law enforcement and lifesaving operations in the communities they serve. Learn more at Michigan.gov/ConservationOfficers.Note to editors: An accompanying photo is available below for download. Caption information follows.
Award: The Michigan DNR presented Conservation Officer Luke Robare with two awards at Wednesday’s meeting of the Michigan Natural Resources Commission in Gaylord. Robare received a Medal of Valor and a Lifesaving Award for actions that neutralized the threat to public safety during a tragic and violent attack Sept. 28, 2025, in Grand Blanc Township.
DNR conservation officers (L to R): Sgt. Keven Luther, Acting Asst. Chief Jen Wolf, Chief Brandon Kieft, CO Luke Robare, Capt. David Malloch, Acting Capt. Todd Szyska.