Edmonds Public Works Director Earns Praise for Help at Emergency Scene

The Edmonds Police Department is praising the work of a City of Edmonds worker who went beyond his job description to help a family in need.

According to Sgt. Mike Blackburn, on February 29 at about 2:30 p.m., Edmonds Police responded with aid and medical personnel from Snohomish County Fire District 1 to the 1000 block of Seventh Ave South for a medical emergency.

They found an 86-year-old Edmonds resident who had collapsed inside before the door could be unlocked. Because no one else was home at the time, and the woman’s weakened state kept her from making it to the door, fire department personnel quickly forced their way into the home to provide life-saving aid.

As the patient was stabilized in preparation to be taken to the hospital, her family members arrived at the home. Obviously, the woman’s health was a greater priority at that moment than the damaged entry door, so family members prepared to accompany their mother to the emergency department.

Because of the damaged door, the police sergeant on scene placed a call to Edmonds Public Works employee Larry LaFave. As soon as he learned of the situation, LaFave gathered the necessary tools and hardware before arriving at the woman’s home.

Within a few short minutes, LaFave repaired the door jam and replaced the damaged hardware so the residence could be secured as if nothing had happened. In fact, LaFave’s work was completed before the family departed, so they were able to lock their mother’s home with confidence. 

The family is relieved to report that their mother is recovering nicely following the medical scare Wednesday afternoon. They also extended their sincere appreciation to LaFave for coming to help while they tended to a more pressing issue.

Granted, this type of private home repair isn’t included in Larry’s regular job description, but it was apparent that he wasn’t worried about doing a little extra work that afternoon.

Police Sgt. Ken Ploeger later said he was proud to work with a man so willing to help others, regardless of the extra effort required.

Said Ploeger: "Larry makes Edmonds a better place to live and work."