By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
On May 9, a U.S. Postal Service worker was hospitalized following a dog attack in the 1400 block of Lakin Avenue in Great Bend. Kyle Walter happened to be in the neighborhood preparing a roofing estimate at the time of the attack.
Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark said Walter heard the commotion and sprang into action to help the mail carrier against two dogs.
"Without hesitation or regard to his own safety, Mr. Walter retrieved a shovel from his truck and ran to the scene," said Haulmark. "Using the shovel, he struck one of the attacking dogs, successfully stopping the assault and causing both animals to flee. Due to Mr. Walter's swift and courageous response, the life-threatening situation was brought to an end before even more serious injuries could occur."
The mail carrier suffered significant wounds, requiring several hundred stitches and ongoing medical treatment. Mayor Cody Schmidt and the City of Great Bend honored Walter at Monday’s city council meeting with an Exemplary Citizen Award.
"I want to thank Kyle personally," said Schmidt. "I know this recognition is not something you wanted to happen, but it needed to happen. On behalf of myself and the city, citizens like you is what makes Great Bend a great place. Thank you."
Following an investigation, officers arrested the dog owner, Dakota Procopio, age 23. Procopio faces charges of obstruction of justice, dog at large, no current rabies vaccinations and vicious dog. The dogs were taken into custody for a state-mandated observation period.