Ava, MO. – The City of Ava is recognizing local law enforcement officers for going above and beyond the call of duty. Officers recognized are Officer Derald Wright of the Ava Police Department, and Deputies Aaron Box and Joe Dering of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Department.
On Sunday, December 11, while on patrol, Officer Wright recognized a citizen in distress at a convenience store on South Jefferson, Officer Wright discovered that the female was unresponsive and not breathing and immediately began lifesaving measures. While on patrol, Deputies Box and Dering observed Officer Wright and began assisting the citizen until EMS crews arrived.
Officer Wright grew up in Ozark County and currently resides in Seymour. He is a retired Army Veteran and has served as a police officer for 8 years. Officer Wright joined the Ava Police Department as a part-time officer in October 2022.
The City of Ava offers their thanks to Officer Wright for his quick action and dedication, that possibly saved this citizen’s life.
