The community is mourning the passing of Kent Police Officer Diego Moreno, who was struck and killed by a patrol car during a pursuit early Sunday.
In the face of tragedy, even first responders need help processing a crisis.
Code 4 Northwest is a non-profit created by first responders to help their peers through tragedies encountered on the job.
Representatives were on call Sunday at the Kent Police Department after the loss of Officer Diego Moreno.
The non-profit connects first responders with counselors to meet that individual's unique needs. The cost is covered by insurance or a scholarship program offered by Code 4.
Colleen Hilton is a counselor in Bellevue and donates her services through Code 4 Northwest. She says being there for the long haul of a tragedy is crucial.
"It's really important for agencies like Code 4 to connect people who have experienced tragedy with ongoing resources like counselors or treatment programs or peer support groups so that they can experience support at an ongoing basis," Hilton said, "because they'll be processing the tragedy for quite some time."
Code 4 Northwest can be reached by phone at 425-243-5092 or at www.code4nw.org.
