Honoring Officer Matt Baker

Chief Ryan, Officer Baker, Sgt. James Leonard

Medal of Valor presented by the Town of Homecroft

Chief John Ryan, Officer Matthew Baker, Sgt. David Hodge

Officer Matt Baker was the recipient of two honors on Thursday, March 18, 2021, during the Town Board meeting. Officer Baker was first named Homecroft Police Department's 2020 Officer of the Year for multiple actions, including, but not limited to the resuscitation of an overdose victim with no heartbeat. Officer Baker administered CPR to the victim.

Second, Officer Baker, was awarded the Medal of Valor and Official Decree of Honor by the Town of Homecroft, a first for the Town. The medal and decree were awarded for actions taken on September 18th, 2020 by Officer Baker. Officer Baker observed smoke on Madison Avenue and followed it to an apartment building in the Green Tree Apartment Complex. On Approach, Officer Baker noticed flames coming from the windows and immediately notified dispatch to inform the Indianapolis Fire Department. Without consideration for his own safety, Officer Baker went into the burning building to evacuate residents. Accompanied by Captain Whitlow of Southport Police Department, both heroically and safely evacuated many residents, while they, themselves, suffered  smoke inhalation and had to be treated on scene by Indianapolis Emergency Medical Services.

Captain Whitlow was also awarded a Commendation by the Homecroft Police Department for his involvement.

Capt. Whitlow, Officer Baker