Richie O’Brien always seems to be in a good mood.

Even when he lost his father and was diagnosed with bone cancer in high school, Richie was always putting a positive spin on things.

He was an outstanding football player for Butte Central. He has also been a coach for the Maroons in track and football. This spring, Richie will serve as Butte Central’s first head coach in baseball.

In May of 2017, Richie helped bring the murders of Broadwater County Deputy Mason Moore to justice. He took part in a high-speed chase and shootout on Interstate 90. It was a scene straight out of Hollywood, but it was real.

Richie risked his life for justice and safety. That chase was highlighted as part of a recent episode of NBC’s Dateline.

Listen in as Richie talks about that chase and its aftermath. Listen as he discusses his family, losing his father, beating cancer and the support he received from the community.

No longer a police officer, Richie O’Brien is still a true-life hero. We all owe him a debt of gratitude.