Carson City hero receives medal of valor

A 51-year-old Carson City man who was shot in the leg after stopping on Mother's Day to help a motorist in Washoe Valley was honored for valor last week.

Jerry Hafen, director of the Nevada Department of Public Safety, called Wayne Nash a good Samaritan as about 75 people gathered for the presentation Friday of the agency's first Civilian Medal of Valor.

"In today's world, it's rare to find a real Samaritan" who not only took the time to stop and render aid, "but suffered a life-threatening wound due to the actions of someone irresponsible," Hafen said.

Nash was shot in the right leg when he stopped to assist what he thought was a motorist in peril due to the erratic stop made on the side of the road.

Victor Rodriguez, 24, will be tried for the murder of Rene Angulo, 17, and attempted murder of Nash.

Nash limped slightly as he entered the room on Friday, leaning on a cane for support. He fought back tears as he recalled the events of that day.

"It is surreal to me, but the pain in my leg is a reminder that I almost died many times and that I almost lost my leg," he said.

"My heart also goes out to the family of Rene," he said. "I can't imagine what they're going through right now."

Nash also praised his wife Tamara - "who has no medical training, but must watch a lot of TV" - for applying a tourniquet to his leg while waiting for the ambulance, and to his daughter, Whitney, who was able to remember all the digits on the license plate of the shooter's vehicle as he sped from the scene.

"Two other couples stopped to help because of my daughter's pleas. I don't know who they are, but if they ever come forward, I'd like to thank them myself," he said.

"And if I am a Good Samaritan," he added tearfully, "it's because of my family values. Family values start at home, and I'd like to thank my mom and dad for teaching me values and compassion."