Seven years have passed since the deadly antisemitic attack at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, but the courage of the first responders who faced unimaginable danger during the 2018 shooting has now been brought to light through a powerful new documentary. The film, titled Confronting Hate: Responding to the Tree of Life Attack, was released on the 7th anniversary of the tragedy, offering a rare glimpse into the emotional toll and bravery of those who risked their lives to protect others during the assault.
At the center of the documentary is Tim Matson, a Pittsburgh SWAT officer who was shot 12 times while confronting Robert Bowers, the perpetrator of the massacre. Matson, who survived the attack, has now spoken publicly for the first time since the incident, sharing the profound trauma and sacrifices that the officers endured. The film also features interviews with other first responders who were under a gag order throughout Bowers’ federal prosecution, a restriction that prevented them from discussing their experiences publicly for five years.
The documentary highlights the immense physical and emotional challenges faced by the officers, many of whom were not fully recovered from their injuries. Tim Matson, for instance, has undergone over 25 surgeries and faced months of rehabilitation before he was able to walk again. His experience, like that of his fellow officers, illustrates the cost of service and the enduring impact of a traumatic event on those who intervened to save lives.
Becker, the documentary’s creator and CEO of Aardvark Tactical, emphasized that the film is not merely a tribute to the victims and responders but also a call for reform. He pointed out the broader issues of under-investing in law enforcement, both in terms of resources and training, which he believes could have led to better preparedness in the face of such crises. The film also underlines the necessity of a more balanced public narrative about police forces, where their sacrifices are acknowledged rather than overshadowed by criticism of their actions.
Among the survivors whose lives were saved by the officers is Dan Legard and Andrea Wender. Their survival is credited to the bravery of the responders who rushed into the synagogue under fire, risking their lives to evacuate the injured and protect congregants. Becker highlighted that these individuals are alive because of the courage of others they did not even know, underscoring the selflessness and sacrifice that defined the day.
Bowers was ultimately convicted on all 63 federal counts in 2023 and received the death penalty. The Tree of Life Congregation expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and solidarity from the community and around the world, emphasizing that the tragedy has strengthened their resolve to heal, grow, and rebuild the synagogue as a place of unity and resilience against hate.