Sangamon Sun

This week, a Chatham police officer took decisive action to save the life of a young woman. Sergeant Travis Schaal is being recognized for his intervention during a critical situation. The community depends on police officers for protection, and Sergeant Schaal demonstrated exceptional dedication by assisting a woman in distress.

According to a Facebook post from the Chatham IL Police Department, Sergeant Schaal was on patrol when he noticed a vehicle parked with its headlights on near train tracks in the 200 block of N. State Street. It was late at night, and he had observed the same vehicle in that location about two hours earlier. Sensing something unusual, he decided to investigate further.

Upon approaching the driver, an 18-year-old woman, she initially claimed to be "OK" and attempted to reassure him of her well-being. However, using skills acquired through crisis intervention training, Sergeant Schaal engaged her in conversation. Eventually, she revealed that she was experiencing difficulties at home and school and intended to lay down on the tracks as a train approached.

Sergeant Schaal persuaded her to accompany him back to the police department for further discussion. She agreed and was subsequently taken to a local hospital for mental health treatment.

A week later, Sergeant Schaal received a handwritten thank you card from the young woman. In it, she expressed gratitude for his humane treatment and credited him with saving her life. She mentioned that she had previously feared first responders but that his interaction changed her perspective.

The Chatham community extends its appreciation to Sergeant Schaal for his commendable service.