Kyle Walter received Great Bend’s Exemplary Citizen Award at Monday’s city council meeting, recognizing his heroic actions in rescuing a mail carrier when she was viciously attacked by two dogs on May 9.
Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark spoke about the reason for the award.
Shortly after 11 a.m. on May 9, as the U.S. Postal Service mail carrier was delivering mail in the 1400 block of Lakin Avenue, she was viciously attacked by two large, unrestrained dogs, Haulmark said.
The dogs pulled her to the ground and began biting her multiple times, inflicting serious injuries. During this terrifying incident, Walter, a Great Bend resident who was nearby preparing a roofing estimate, heard the commotion and immediately sprang into action.
“Without hesitation and with no regard for his own safety, Mr. Walter retrieved a shovel from his truck and ran to the scene. Using the shovel, he struck one of the attacking dogs, successfully stopping the assault and causing both animals to flee,” Haulmark said. “Due to Mr. Walter’s swift and courageous response, the life-threatening situation was brought to an end before even more serious injuries could occur.”
The mail carrier’s wounds required several hundred stitches and ongoing medical treatment, Haulmark continued.
“But it was without question that Mr. Walter’s actions prevented even graver harm. For his bravery, selflessness and decisive action in defense of his fellow citizen, Mr. Kyle Walter is hereby recognized with an Exemplary Citizen Award. His actions reflect the highest standards of civic responsibility and human compassion and serve as an inspiration to our entire community.”
The City Council members and others in the room stood and applauded as Walter came forward to receive the award without comment.
City Administrator Logan Burns commended Walter and said citizens continue to pray for the mail carrier’s recovery.
Mayor Cody Schmidt also thanked Walter on behalf of himself and the City, telling Walter citizens like him are what make Great Bend a great place.
The dog’s owner, Dakota M. Procopio, 23, was arrested on May 12 on Great Bend Municipal Court charges of dog at large, vicious dog and no rabies vaccination, as well as interference with a law enforcement officer. According to a news release, a Crimestoppers tip led investigators to Procopio’s residence in Great Bend. He confirmed he was the owner of the dogs and that he had moved them to another residence in Raymond.
The dogs were taken into custody by Animal Control for the state-mandated observation period.
