Neighbors reach out to help police

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - While the situation today was dangerous for officers, the extreme heat also challenged the many officers and firefighters working the scene.

In fact, a handful of officers fell victim to the heat while working this case.

Police say several neighbors stepped-in and provided officers bottled water to keep them hydrated.

Neighbor Dawson Weaver says once he noticed the need, he went right into action to help.

"These guys, They are in full attire, They're sitting with as much gear as they can have and it is just too hot, They are sitting there sweating.. I watched an officer double over and looked like he was going to pass out, They needed some fluids in them,” Weaver said.

"Neighbors poured out of their residences, obviously to see what was going on,but to provide cold rags, to provide ice packs, to provide water, to provide a, pat on the back,” Sgt. Joe Watts, of the Indiana State Police told News 10.

Besides the generous donations from neighbors,The Terre Haute Fire Department also provided support to the heat exhausted officers.