While on evening patrol of June 6, 2008 along with an authorized citizen ride-on Officer Joe Young of Fredericksburg, Virginia Police Department became involved with a domestic violence call involving an armed suspect. As the incident began to unfold in an apartment complex Officer Young immediately sent the ride-on to an area away from the scene concerned about their safety. As one officer pursued the suspect Officer Joe Young decided to use his cruiser to divert the suspect's attention by opening the door with the radio blaring.

Officer Young was then able to place himself between the armed suspect and the intended victims apartment entrance. As the suspect attempted to return to the apartment Officer Young confronted him and gunshots were exchanged. Officer Young fired seven shots wounding the suspect. The suspect then decided to take his own life. Afterward, it was discovered that one officer had been killed by the armed suspect. The scene of the shooting incident resemble a combat zone more than a crime scene, 24 gunshots were exchanged between the patrol officers, sheriff deputies and the armed suspect. Officer Young received the Officer of the Second Quarter and eventually Officer of the Year for 2008 from the Fredericksburg Police Department for his heroic actions that day. The officer lost in the line of duty and Officer Joe Young both received the "Medal of Honor", which he proudly wears. This was the first time in the history of Fredericksburg Police Department this award was presented.

Officer Joe Young began his career in law enforcement with Fredericksburg Police Department in 2003. After training he became a SWAT member in 2004. He was appointed to the Honor Guard in 2007 along with becoming a Field Training Officer.

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