MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
The Hutchinson Police Department honored its officers, staff and community partners during its annual Awards and Recognition Ceremony this past weekend, highlighting achievements from 2025 and recognizing acts of exceptional service.
Among those recognized were Reverend Charles Crumble Sr. and New Resurrection Church for their support of first responders during a major incident last year.
In the early morning hours of Feb. 1, 2025, a large-scale emergency response unfolded in the 1000 block of East Third Avenue. First responders from five local and state agencies worked the scene for hours in temperatures hovering around 25 degrees.
During the incident, New Resurrection Church, located at 1001 E. Third Ave., opened its doors to officers, firefighters, agents and crime scene personnel, offering a warm place to rest and access to restroom facilities as crews rotated through the scene.
As the morning continued, Crumble informed authorities that the church would also prepare lunch for those on duty. First responders were served goulash, sandwiches and a variety of snacks, drinks and desserts.
Members of the congregation remained on site throughout the response, ensuring personnel had relief from the cold and offering spiritual guidance to those who requested it. Church staff stayed in communication with command personnel to identify any additional needs as the situation evolved.
Police officials said the church’s compassion and hospitality provided critical support during a traumatic and demanding incident.
In recognizing Crumble and New Resurrection Church, the department cited their extraordinary generosity and commitment to serving the community, noting their assistance helped first responders cope with the circumstances while continuing their work.