UPDATE: Assembly gives standing ovation to Middleton officers

The state Assembly honored the four police officers who killed a workplace shooter last year.

WTS Paradigm employee Anthony Tong opened fire in the Middleton software company's office in September. He wounded four co-workers. Middleton Police Officers Tyler Loether and Richard O'Connor along with Dane County Sheriff's Deputies Matthew Earll and David Lambrecht rushed into the building and killed Tong in a gunfight. Prosecutors say Tong had a long history of schizophrenia.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Loether said they put their lives on the line to protect others.

“I know the three men who stand beside me today accepting this award are heroes, without hesitation they put their lives on the line to save others. To protect and serve. I am proud to work alongside each of them and all of our law enforcement colleagues each and every day. You are all heroes to us,” Loether said.

The Assembly gave them a standing ovation.

The Assembly honored the officers and deputies Tuesday as part of the chamber's "Hometown Heroes" program. The program recognizes people around the state who make a difference in their communities by introducing them on the Assembly floor.

Majority Leader Jim Steineke selected the officers to receive the award.