On September 2, 2008 Trooper Ed Collins joined in the pursuit of a suspect attempting to escape capture after shooting six people including a sheriff's deputy in Skagit County. Realizing the intensity of the situation Trooper Collins placed his car between the dangerous suspect and citizens driving on Interstate 5. Additional troopers and Mount Vernon Police Officers assisted by blocking the on ramps keeping the media and public out of harm's way since at times speeds exceeded 90 mph. Trooper Collins displayed a high level of composure and professionalism throughout the dangerous situation. His Supervisor Sergeant Jason Armstrong stated he was extremely proud of Trooper Collins actions as he took the initiative and ended the incident without further bloodshed. Trooper Ed Collins has been with Washington State Patrol for the past nine and a half years assigned to Skagit County. His experience in Law Enforcement includes being a member of the Rapid Deployment Force, Field Training Officer and a Collision Re-constructionists. Trooper Collins has received the District Collision Technical Specialist of the Year three years out of the past four years. He was part of the team that received the State Troopers' Detachment of the Year for 2006, 2007 and 2008. Washington State Patrol Trooper Edward Collins will receive the 2008 Mountain West Regional Trooper of the Year Award from the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) in March 2009. Trooper Collins is also one of four finalists for the 2008 National Trooper of the Year award given by the IACP, for his heroic actions of September 2, 2008