In a significant political move that is capturing the attention of the local community, Deputy Mike Allred of the Box Elder County Sheriff's Office has officially announced his candidacy for the position of Sheriff. The announcement comes just weeks after Allred sustained serious injuries in a shooting incident that occurred on August 17, 2023, in Tremonton, Utah, a harrowing event that left two fellow officers dead and underscored the dangers faced by law enforcement officers on the job. During the tragic shooting, Allred, who was responding to assist Tremonton officers, found himself under gunfire while still inside his patrol vehicle. Despite being wounded, Allred displayed remarkable courage and professionalism. He utilized his police radio to communicate critical information to incoming officers, effectively redirecting them away from the line of fire. This quick thinking potentially saved lives, as noted by Box Elder County Sheriff's Office Chief Deputy Cade Palmer, who praised Allred's actions during the crisis. "As officers were coming, they were coming in the wrong way. He was able to redirect them, so they didn't come into the line of fire," Chief Deputy Palmer stated, highlighting the heroism exhibited by Allred during the chaotic moments of the shooting. The incident unfolded in a residential area of Tremonton, where Deputy Allred was caught in the crossfire while trying to assist his colleagues, Sgt. Lee Sorensen and Ofc. Eric Estrada. Tragically, both Sorensen and Estrada lost their lives in the shootout, a devastating loss that has deeply affected the local law enforcement community and the residents of Box Elder County. In addition to Allred, a three-year-old Belgian Malinois named Azula was also injured during the shooting but has since been recovering alongside the deputy. At a press conference held on Friday, Allred expressed his long-standing desire to run for Sheriff, emphasizing that his decision to announce his candidacy is rooted in a commitment to serve the community and implement necessary changes within the department. He stated, "I have always aspired to run for Sheriff. I want to make some changes in the County that will improve the safety and well-being of our community. My experience in law enforcement has shown me where we can grow and become better." Importantly, Allred clarified that his candidacy does not come from a place of animosity towards the current Sheriff, but rather from a desire to build on the existing foundation and enhance the services provided by the Sheriff's Office. He believes that his experiences, including the recent traumatic events, have equipped him with unique insights into the challenges faced by law enforcement and the community. As he campaigns, Allred is expected to focus on several key areas, including officer training, community engagement, and mental health resources for both law enforcement personnel and the public. He plans to leverage his firsthand experience to advocate for policies that promote the safety and well-being of both officers and the communities they serve. The announcement has sparked a wave of support from fellow officers and community members alike, many of whom view Allred as a symbol of resilience and dedication. His bravery during the shooting has not only earned him accolades but has also solidified his reputation as a leader within the department. Allred's candidacy has the potential to reshape the landscape of law enforcement in Box Elder County as he seeks to bring a fresh perspective to the role of Sheriff. In the aftermath of the shooting, the community has rallied around the families of the fallen officers, and many residents are eager to see how Allred's campaign will unfold. Local leaders and citizens have expressed hope that his leadership could foster a stronger relationship between law enforcement and the community, ultimately leading to a safer environment for everyone. As Deputy Allred embarks on this new chapter in his career, he is not only seeking a position of authority but is also aiming to honor the memory of Sgt. Sorensen and Ofc. Estrada by continuing to serve the community they dedicated their lives to protect. His story is one of courage, resilience, and a commitment to positive change in the face of adversity. As the election date approaches, FOX 13 News will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates on Allred's campaign and other candidates vying for the role of Box Elder County Sheriff. The upcoming election presents a critical opportunity for voters to engage in conversations about law enforcement, community safety, and the future direction of the Sheriff's Office in Box Elder County.