Heroic former police officer honoured by King Charles for bravery in Keyham shooting

A retired Devon and Cornwall Police officer who confronted the gunman during the tragic Keyham shootings in Plymouth in August 2021 has been awarded the King’s Gallantry Medal (KGM) for his exceptional bravery.

Zach Printer, a former Police Constable and Royal Marine, received the prestigious award from King Charles III during an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday, December 11. This marks the first time King Charles has named recipients on the Civilian Gallantry List, highlighting acts of extraordinary courage.

Accompanied by his wife and three grown sons, the 64-year-old Plymouth resident described the event as an “awesome” and “very humbling” experience. Speaking about the day, Zach said:
"It went very well and was an awesome experience. It was very humbling and a memorable day for my family. I’m immensely proud to have been part of it. The interest the King took in you as a person and in your family was really impressive."

During the ceremony, Zach took the opportunity to reflect on the contributions of his colleagues and other first responders, stating: “I explained to the King the role that colleagues and other first-responders played on that day and I was thinking of them.”

On August 12, 2021, Plymouth was rocked by one of the worst mass shootings in recent UK history. The assailant, armed with a shotgun, claimed the lives of five people, including a three-year-old girl, before taking his own life.

Zach Printer, then serving unarmed with the Roads Policing Team, self-deployed to the scene, confronting the gunman and preventing further harm. His decisive and courageous actions were recognised in the Cabinet Office’s commendation, which stated: "PC Printer’s selfless and brave actions confronting the assailant prevented further harm to members of the public."

Zach Printer’s police career spanned 17-and-a-half years, during which he served as a response officer, firearms officer, and roads policing officer with Devon and Cornwall Police. He retired from frontline duties in February 2022 but continues to serve his community as a Police Enquiry Officer at Crownhill Police Station in Plymouth.

Before joining the police, Zach was a Royal Marine, bringing a lifetime of service to his community and country.

The King’s Gallantry Medal is awarded to civilians for acts of exemplary bravery, often in life-threatening situations. Zach first learned in March 2023 that he had been recommended for the medal by the George Cross Committee.

This award celebrates the exceptional courage displayed by first responders and civilians in times of crisis, ensuring their contributions are applauded and remembered.

The Keyham shootings left an indelible mark on the Plymouth community, but the bravery and dedication of individuals like Zach Printer have provided a sense of hope and resilience in the aftermath. As Zach continues his work in law enforcement, his actions serve as a powerful reminder of the courage and commitment of those who step forward in the face of danger.

For further information on civilian gallantry awards and the Keyham community’s recovery efforts, visit gov.uk.