Hero Officers Who Tore Door From Car To Save Dying Child Honored

LAKEWOOD, WA — The city of Lakewood this week celebrated the outstanding actions of more than 20 people by recognizing both residents and Lakewood police officers who either saved lives or "exemplified what the Lakewood Police Department strives to accomplish" over the past year.

For their various, individual actions, the 22 recipients received a variety of awards at the Dec. 3 Lakewood City Council meeting.

Among them were Lakewood officers Jason Catlett, Jon Anderson, and Nile Teclemariam, who on Sept. 9 responded to a car crash involving a vehicle occupied by several kids.

According to the citation, the officers found among the kids an 11-year-old boy who wasn't breathing. Rather than wait for West Pierce Fire & Rescue responders to arrive, the three officers reportedly tore one of the vehicle's doors from its hinges, pulled the boy out, and began performing CPR.

Tragically, the boy passed away; but for performing CPR so quickly, the officers reportedly allowed doctors to successfully harvest four of the boy's organs, which were used to save the lives of four other people.

Each of the officers received a Medal of Meritorious Service to acknowledge the solemn occasion.

Other award recipients included heroic life savers and community members who unhesitatingly stepped up in dire moments of need. For the complete list of awards and their citations, visit CityofLakewood.us.

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Image via City of Lakewood