MINNEAPOLIS — Minneapolis Police Inspector Ryan Kelly has been named one of two recipients of this year's Police Officer of the Year Award from the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and Axon, the Minneapolis Police Department announced Friday, October 30, 2026.

According to the department, the award is one of the IACP's most respected honors, given annually to an officer who exemplifies leadership, excellence, and dedication to public safety. MPD said the honor recognizes Kelly in part for his response to last year's shooting at Annunciation, where, the department said, he was the first officer on the scene.

MPD said Kelly entered the church, found numerous children and adults injured by gunfire, and — drawing on his military training and experience — began helping the wounded.

"I humbly accept this award on behalf of Minneapolis Police officers and the hundreds of first responders who came to help that day to make sure those kids went home," Kelly said in the department's release. "For the Annunciation community and those survivors who continue to persevere. Finally, and most of all, I accept this award for Fletcher and Harper."

Mayor Jacob Frey praised the selection in the same release. "His fearless acts in the face of great danger at Annunciation, coupled with his daily commitment to the wellbeing of community members impacted by gun violence makes him a perfect choice for this award," Frey said.

Father Dennis Zehren of Annunciation Parish said Kelly's "courage, leadership, and lifesaving actions on Aug. 27, 2025, have had a profound and lasting impact on the Annunciation community," according to the release.

Interim Chief Billy Peterson said Kelly "met an unthinkable moment with absolute calm and extraordinary courage," and that his actions "exemplify the highest standards of valor."

Kelly joined MPD in 2013 and has served in multiple precincts and divisions, according to the department. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2021 and Lieutenant in 2025, and was named the 5th Precinct Inspector earlier this year. MPD said he also brings 18 years of U.S. Army combat medic service and a master's degree in criminal justice leadership.

This is the second consecutive year Minneapolis officers have received the award, the department said. Last year's recipients were Officer Jamal Mitchell (posthumous), Officer Nick Kapinos, Officer Luke Kittock, and Officer Eric Withanom, honored for their actions on May 30, 2024, in an exchange of gunfire that took Officer Mitchell's life.

— National Correspondent Network