Sheriff's Deputy Vince Guyer Honored for Bravery in High-Risk Standoff

Posted June 27, 2025
Posted by Sheriff's Office and Public Relations
On June 25, 2025, Pottawattamie County Sheriff's Deputy Vince Guyer arrived at the Sheriff's Office expecting a quick meeting. Instead, he and his family were met by a room full of colleagues and leadership from the Iowa State Patrol who were gathered to recognize his extraordinary service during a dangerous armed standoff earlier this year.
Deputy Guyer, a veteran of the Sheriff’s Office since 1999, was presented with the Chief’s Commendation and a challenge coin by Iowa State Patrol Colonel Nathan Fulk for his bravery, precision, and selflessness during a tense, 19-hour-long incident that occurred in Storm Lake, Iowa, on January 26. Pottawattamie County Sheriff Andy Brown also presented Deputy Guyer with the department’s Medal of Merit, recognizing his calm professionalism and courage under fire.
Guyer was joined by his wife and son who were able to witness the unexpected, and deeply meaningful, recognition. The gratitude and pride shared by all in attendance was abundantly clear and has been echoed in sentiments shared online in reaction to the announcement.
Courage Under Fire
The Storm Lake incident began early that morning with a high-speed pursuit that ended in a barricaded subject pouring gasoline around his home. As law enforcement officers attempted to negotiate, they came under sustained gunfire from the suspect. Over the course of several hours, more than 120 rounds were fired at law enforcement officers.
Deputy Guyer, trained as both a sniper and a ROOK operator on the Emergency Response Team, was called to the scene around 5:00 p.m. to assist with breaching and tactical operations. By 8:00 p.m., he was deployed in the ROOK, a specially outfitted armored vehicle critical for navigating high-risk situations.
During the standoff, the ROOK was struck by over 30 rifle rounds, many hitting the armored glass just inches from Deputy Guyer’s position. Despite the intensity and risk, he remained focused and methodical, breaching portions of the attic and upper story of the home to allow entry points for drones and other tools. His efforts enabled authorities to gather critical intelligence, deploy tools like drones and tear gas, and ultimately bring the volatile situation to an end without injury to any law enforcement personnel.
Recognizing Service and Sacrifice
His composure under pressure was not lost on those on scene or on those who later reviewed the operation. Deputy Guyer’s actions were truly heroic, but he is quick to credit the team around him and the equipment that allowed him to do his job safely.
“The ROOK played a huge role that night,” he said. “It took over 30 rounds and held strong. That kind of protection made it possible for us to do what we needed to do and come home safe to our families.”
The recognition on June 25 was a moment to celebrate not only Deputy Guyer’s bravery, but also the skill, discipline, and quiet professionalism he has brought to the Sheriff’s Office over more than two decades. His career includes service as a K9 officer, a sniper, and a key member of the Emergency Response Team.
It was also a meaningful moment for his family, whose presence highlighted a truth often unspoken: that every deputy’s service is shared by those who stand behind them and with them. The inclusion of his wife and son made the recognition all the more powerful.
“We can’t thank Deputy Guyer enough for his professionalism, skills, and courage under fire,” said Sheriff Andy Brown. “We’re proud to have him on our team and grateful for the role he played in ensuring everyone from the numerous law enforcement agencies involved went home safe that night.”
Deputy Guyer’s recognition is a reminder of the risks our law enforcement officers face—and the importance of preparation, teamwork, and the right tools to meet any challenge.