Executive Office of Public Safety and Security

On this first day of Pride Month, we celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and recognize its many contributions to the Commonwealth, our nation, and our world. We also acknowledge the discrimination and hostility that many members of this community have faced throughout history and, in some cases, continue to face today. During Pride Month, we reaffirm our commitment to treating all people with dignity and respect and to fostering communities that are safe, welcoming, and inclusive for everyone.

Secretary Kwon and our team echoes Massachusetts Department of Correction Commissioner Shawn Jenkins’ words in this difficult moment. We will never forget Correction Officer John Edwards.

It is with profound sadness that the Massachusetts Department of Correction announces the sudden line-of-duty death of Correction Officer John Edwards, a 28-year veteran of the Department assigned to North Central Correctional Institution in Gardner. This morning, Officer Edwards suffered a medical emergency at his post and passed away.

Commissioner Shawn Jenkins issued the following statement in tribute to the fallen officer:

“Today, we mourn the loss of Correction Officer John Edwards, who served the Department of Correction for nearly three decades with unwavering dedication to our public safety mission. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, and offer them our full support in the difficult days ahead. His service will never be forgotten.”

This afternoon, Massachusetts Public Safety Officials received reports of an audible boom and ground tremors in Eastern Massachusetts. Although we do not yet know the cause, there are no known emergency police or fire requests connected to these reports and we do not believe there is any public safety threat.

We remain in contact with our local, state, and federal partners to monitor any impact and understand the cause when it becomes available.

To close out AANHPI Heritage Month, Secretary Gina Kwon joined Governor Maura Healey and community leaders to celebrate the contributions, cultures, and leadership of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities across Massachusetts.

As the first Korean American to serve as Massachusetts' Secretary of Public Safety and Security, Secretary Kwon is proud to celebrate the values of public service and inclusive leadership. Thank you to everyone who helped make this month’s celebrations so meaningful.

Last night, a third-generation Boston Firefighter assigned to Rescue Company 2, Robert Kilduff Jr., gave his life battling a three-alarm fire in Dorchester.

Secretary Gina Kwon and our entire team extends our deepest condolences to the Kilduff Family, the Boston Fire Department, and those who mourn this enormous loss.

We will never forget Firefighter Kilduff, a hero forever.

We'd like to give a special shoutout to Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and Massachusetts Department of Fire Services for supporting survivors of last week's devastating, 7-alarm fire in North Attleborough. The Recovery Resource Center connected affected residents with critical resources from 17 local, state, and nonprofit organizations. DFS also deployed its Rehab Unit to support firefighters operating at the scene. Thank you to everyone who has stepped up to support our neighbors in their continued recovery.

Read more: https://www.bostonglobe.com/2026/05/11/metro/north-attleborough-fire/

Attention Police Chiefs: EOPSS is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Hanna Awards. This prestigious award recognizes members of law enforcement for exemplary acts of bravery. 🎖️

Submit nominations for the 2025 calendar year by June 12th: https://www.mass.gov/how-to/submit-a-nomination-for-the-george-l-hanna-memorial-awards-for-bravery

National Police Week provides an important opportunity to honor the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who serve in law enforcement, while reaffirming the importance of trust, respect, and partnership between police and the communities they protect.

This year, in the wake of the death of Trooper Kevin Trainor, Secretary Kwon and our entire team would like to thank the thousands of troopers and officers from across the country who stood shoulder to shoulder in tribute to our fallen hero. Their presence and support have been a powerful source of strength during this time of profound loss.

In the wake of this tragedy, we echo the words of Governor Maura Healey, who encouraged people to “go out and find a police officer, find a trooper, and take the time to give them a hug” — a simple but meaningful reminder to show appreciation for those who put themselves in harm’s way to protect others every day