WALLACE – In the wake of the Dec. 26 shooting that sent rounds through a local business, an act of generosity by its owners has strengthened the partnership between the Osburn Police Department and the community it serves. 

Building Maintenance & Supply has donated two AR-15 rifles to the Osburn Police Department to support officer safety and community protection. 

The rifles, Smith and Wesson M&P 15s, each valued at over $1,000, were formally presented by Casey Duncan of Building Maintenance & Supply to Osburn Police Chief Jason Woody. The donation reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting local law enforcement and ensuring officers have access to reliable equipment to perform their duties safely and effectively. 

“We are grateful for the work our local officers do every day,” Duncan said. “This donation is a small way for us to show our appreciation and help ensure they have the tools they need to protect our community.” 

During the shooting, Building Maintenance & Supply was caught in the crossfire, taking several rounds through the glass storefront. On the morning after the incident, Chief Woody contacted business owners Mark and Anna Berger to check on them and their staff. 

During that conversation, Woody mentioned he would soon stop by the store to get pricing on a new duty rifle as the department moved forward with plans to replace one of its aging rifles. Without hesitation, Mark Berger offered to donate two new rifles to the department. 

Woody emphasized that the call was not a request for equipment. 

“I informed Mark that the purpose of my call was strictly out of concern for their well-being and was not a solicitation for equipment,” he said. 

According to Woody, Berger insisted on the donation, explaining that providing two rifles instead of one would spare the department the future burden of upgrading a second firearm and serve as a thank-you for the department’s rapid response and ongoing service. 

Chief Woody expressed his appreciation for the donation, noting that updated equipment plays an important role in officer preparedness and public safety. 

“Support from local businesses like Building Maintenance & Supply means a great deal to our department,” Chief Woody said. “These rifles will enhance our ability to respond effectively to critical incidents and keep both officers and citizens safe.” 

Woody said the response from the business owners following such a traumatic event exemplified the character of the community. 

“Mark and Anna represent the very best of our community,” Woody said. “Their unwavering support for law enforcement goes beyond simple words; it is reflected in their proactive generosity and their desire to ensure our officers have the best tools available to stay safe.” 

Building Maintenance & Supply said it is proud to stand behind the Osburn Police Department and the men and women who serve the community.