Officer Royston receives commendation

Thursday, December 12, 2024

Media Contact: Shannon Rigsby | Associate Director of Public Information | 405-744-9081 | Shannon.rigsby@okstate.edu

Officer Christopher Royston was recently presented with a commendation for locating an equestrian rider at Lake Carl Blackwell after she was thrown from her horse on a remote trail. 

Lt. Justin Hart presented Royston with the commendation. 

“Due to Officer Royston’s calm nature, his ability to control the incident, his dedication to service and his true caring for other people, the victim was located, treated and transported to Stillwater Medical Center in a timely manner,” Hart said. “Officer Royston's actions were not only commendable, but he brings credit to himself, the OSUPD and the community we serve.” 

Royston, a seven-year police veteran, has served the Oklahoma State University Police Department since September 2019. 

Royston responded to Lake Carl Blackwell on Nov. 2  after the rider was thrown from her horse and sustained chest and shoulder injuries. Royston coordinated with LCB staff and medical personnel before he took off on the trail on foot, running for close to a mile-and-a-half to reach the victim. He located the victim and began treating the injuries she sustained from the fall. He kept her calm and reported back to the medical team what injuries she sustained and what materials they needed to bring with them. When the medical team reached the victim, Royston worked with the Stillwater Police Department to transport the victim to the ambulance. 

“Chris is a valued officer with a passion for helping people and his community,” OSUPD Capt. Colt Chandler said. “That was on display in his actions when helping the patient. OSUPD remains proud to serve our community and Officer Royston reminded us all why we get to serve.”