Karen Wolf didn’t hesitate. When she found an injured neighbor collapsed on the ground during a March 13 dog walk, she called 911 immediately.
Summit Police Chief Mel Ortiz presented her with a Certificate of Good Citizenship at the March Neighborhood Watch meeting, crediting her quick thinking with ensuring the resident received prompt medical attention.
Wolf’s decision to act, rather than assume someone else would help, is exactly the kind of community engagement that keeps neighborhoods safe, officials said. Police and fire departments rely on residents who pay attention and respond when they see someone in trouble.
“On March 13, while walking your dog, you came upon an injured individual who had fallen and sustained a head injury,” Ortiz said. “Without hesitation, you took immediate action by contacting emergency services. Your prompt response ensured that Summit Police and Fire personnel arrived quickly, allowing aid to be rendered and the victim to receive necessary medical attention.”
Ortiz said Wolf’s actions reflected the values the community should aspire to.
“Your willingness to step in during a moment of uncertainty reflects the highest standards of good citizenship and community care,” he said. “Your actions exemplify responsibility, courage, and selflessness. We commend you for your service and for making a meaningful difference in the Summit Community.”
Also recognized at the meeting was Callie Clanton, who came to the neighbor’s aid alongside Wolf.
Police solve burglary ring spanning five suburbs
Back in January, Summit detectives responded to a burglary in progress at Lolly’s Gaming Parlor, 7211 West 63rd Street. When officers arrived, several masked and gloved offenders fled the scene in three vehicles — all later determined to be stolen out of Chicago.
Rather than pursue, officers made the decision to focus on investigation due to public safety concerns. That choice paid off.
Detectives discovered the same offenders had committed consecutive burglaries in Crestwood, Burbank, Oak Lawn and Worth. Through collaborative efforts with detectives from those agencies, Summit detectives identified several suspects and gathered enough evidence to present the case to the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office.
Burglary charges have been approved against two individuals from Chicago and one from Matteson.