By Anna Skinner
Indianapolis Police Dept. Officer Timothy “Jake” Laird was an active participant in his community in addition to serving it. After his death in 2004, his parents Mike and Debbie wanted to continue his passion for being involved in the community.
The seventh annual Jake Laird Community Day will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Aug. 2 at Quaker Park, 17501 Dartown Rd. The Lairds will be in attendance.
“It’s a day that we showcase all our different specialties like a K-9 demonstration and SWAT,” WPD Chief Joel Rush said. “Jake was an IPD officer killed in the line of duty, and he was big in the community. His mother and father live in Noblesville and have taken his passion for the community and continue on with that outreach supporting police and fire departments across Indiana.”
The event is open to the public, and there will be free food and games, face painting, a rock wall, a dunk tank, a bike-safety demonstration and bounce houses. Last year, approximately 500 to 600 people attended.
“It’s just a fun time for the family, and you learn more about the police department,” Rush said. “The Lairds raise money and donate to the police and fire departments for equipment, and they help fund our community day.”
Laird was killed Aug. 24, 2004, after responding to multiple 911 calls regarding gunfire on the south side of Indianapolis.
The Jake Laird Community Day is again paired with National Night Out, an event designed to heighten drug and crime prevention awareness, provide support for local anti-crime programs and more.
For more, visit natw.org.
