SALT LAKE CITY (ABC 4 News) – Barbara Yates lost her only son, Charlie Skinner, last fall. An officer with the North Salt Lake Police Department, he was fatally injured in a crash during a high speed pursuit of a suspect.
Hundreds of fellow Utah law enforcement officers paid their respects at his funeral on November 15. Officer Skinner will be honored again on May 16 at a ceremony at the capitol in Washington D.C. His name will be added to a memorial along will all the other peace officers who lost their lives in 2008.
Barbara Yates wants to be there for that ceremony to both honor her son and heal her heart broken by his death, but she does not have the money for the trip.
Responding to our appeal to take action, ABC 4 viewers have called and e-mailed us with offers of donations. Scott, a pediatrician from American Fork wrote, “I just viewed her story on the 10:00 p.m. news and was saddened by her inability to afford the travel to properly memorialize her only son.” Another offer of help came from Lori. She explained, “The love of my life is also an officer and puts his life on the line every day.” Retired police officers also wrote with their own pledges and suggested we contact various police organizations.
Other e-mails came in from local companies such as Macey’s Market. Barbara has worked at the Macey’s in Sandy for the last 16 years. Web-based company Digicert is also pledging help. The Independent Order of Odd Fellows wants to pay for Barbara’s air fare. Robert Shelton, a past president of the Utah lodge said, “They’re there to protect us. He gave his life for us, so let’s give a little bit back.”
Our next step is to work with airlines and even the Alexandria, Virginia hotel that is hosting the families of fallen police officers for the ceremony. We’re seeking discounts or outright freebees that will help us stretch your donations – trying to get the biggest return for your hard-earned dollar.
As for Barbara, she cannot believe there are so many people who would want to help her. “I’m overwhelmed by the kindness of people who are out there that want to help.”
