Wounded Phily cop nominated for 10G prize

A cold-blooded gunman was on the run and a cop lay dying when Highway Patrol Officer Richard Bowes arrived in North Philly on Sept. 23.
In the chaotic minutes that followed, Bowes fatally shot convicted felon Daniel Giddings, but only after Giddings had fired a bullet that shattered Bowes' pelvis.
Highway Patrol Sgt. Patrick McDonald died that same fall afternoon, after Giddings had riddled him with bullets during a foot chase, police said.
Bowes' performance while under fire is considered legendary in the Police Department.
Now he's in the running for an unexpected honor.
The 37-year-old is among eight cops from across the country who are finalists for "America's Most Wanted" All-Star contest, police said today.
The contest recognizes police, firefighters, EMTs and other first-responders who are dedicated to protecting the public.
Voters will select the winner, who will receive a $10,000 check from AMW host John Walsh at the Nascar Sprint Cup Series all-star race in Charlotte, N.C., on May 16.
Highway Patrol Capt. Michael Cochrane said Bowes is "considered a legend in this unit because of the actions he took" in September.
"He's a great cop who is very well-liked and admired by his peers," Cochrane said.
Bowes has thus far been unable to return to active duty since he was wounded.
Earlier this week, doctors removed the bullet that shattered his pelvis, Cochrane noted.
AMW officials said the public can vote for Bowes once a day between now and May 4 by visiting www.amw.com.
As of April 23, Sprint customers can vote for Bowes by texting "4" to 4AMW*.