Quick-thinking fathers with military experience managed to thwart a potential tragedy at a Texas high school band competition.
Key Takeaways
- The incident occurred during a band competition at Pasadena Memorial High School.
- The shooter was identified as 83-year-old Dennis Erwin Brandl Jr.
- Four fathers, all veterans or law enforcement, tackled and disarmed Brandl.
- The event illustrates how preparedness and prompt action can save lives.
The Shooting Incident
A shooting at Pasadena Memorial High School took place during the Texas Color Guard Circuit drumline competition. The assailant, an elderly man named Dennis Erwin Brandl Jr., used a small caliber weapon, resulting in the injury of a percussion consultant. The assault unfolded in what should have been a peaceful gathering, shocking attendees and necessitating immediate response.
Brandl drove from Spring to Pasadena, entered the school, and shot a man he had no prior contact with. Witnesses reported an unforeseen chaos as the shooting disrupted the event. The perpetrator later claimed he acted in fear, believing someone was chasing him and his wife. Brandl’s actions were unexpected given his age, leading to further concern and confusion among school and community members.
The Heroes Emerge
The attack’s abruptness called for equally swift intervention, which came from four fathers attending the event. Abram Trevino, Adam Curow, Efrain “Polo” Castillo, and Joe Sanchez, known as the Pearland Band Dads, acted heroically. With a combined military and law enforcement background, they quickly subdued Brandl, preventing further harm.
“I grabbed his arms while Adam took the gun out, and once the gun was removed from his hand, we had no handcuffs, so I took off my belt, made handcuffs, got his right arm secured, got his left arm secured,” Sanchez, one of the fathers, explained.
Utilizing improvised handcuffs, Sanchez and his colleagues maintained control over the situation until authorities arrived. Their prompt actions received acclaim from local and national organizations alike. The men demonstrated how critical preparedness and training are when responding to direct threats, potentially saving numerous lives in the process.
A Community’s Gratitude
The Pearland Independent School District publicly lauded the fathers’ actions. Larry Berger, Superintendent of Pearland ISD, celebrated them, recognizing their bravery as an exemplary display of heroism. These fathers are not only band dads but also defenders of their community, underscoring the importance of vigilance and community action in deterring violence.
“Could not be more Pearland proud — they will tell you they are just [Pearland High School] dads — but their selfless response makes them heroes to all of us,” said Berger on social media.
As the investigation continues, the fathers involved are being honored for their quick thinking and bravery. The One in Five Foundation for Kids plans to present awards to these heroic individuals, solidifying their courageous response as a significant moment of community heroism. Their actions stand as a testament to the power of individual initiative in keeping our communities safe.
