Howard Lake First Responders Honored for Life-Saving Actions

City Council presents awards to police, deputies for quick response to cardiac arrest call

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Howard Lake City Council recognized three first responders - Howard Lake Police Officer Jacob Johnson, Wright County Deputy Samantha Hansen, and Wright County Deputy Samina Strandmo - with Life Saving Awards for their quick actions that helped save the life of resident Andrew Hatcher, who suffered a sudden cardiac arrest on January 2. A fourth responder, Wright County Deputy Marcy Dearing, will receive the award at a later date.

Why it matters

The recognition highlights the critical role first responders play in emergency medical situations, and the importance of community members knowing CPR and having access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs). The incident also demonstrates the collaboration between local police, county deputies, and other agencies in responding to calls.

The details

On January 2, Hatcher had just finished shoveling snow and was playing with his niece when he suddenly collapsed. His mother immediately began CPR, a crucial first step. Within minutes, Officer Johnson and Deputies Hansen, Strandmo, and Dearing arrived and continued CPR, assisted with Hatcher's breathing, and used an AED to restart his heart. Hatcher was then transported to the hospital and later airlifted to the University of Minnesota Medical Center for further treatment. He has since recovered and attended the council meeting to personally present the awards to the first responders.

  • On January 2, Hatcher suffered a sudden cardiac arrest.
  • The Howard Lake City Council recognized the first responders at their meeting on February 19, 2026.

The players

Andrew Hatcher

A Howard Lake resident who suffered a sudden cardiac arrest and was saved by the quick actions of the first responders.

Jacob Johnson

A Howard Lake Police Officer who responded to the cardiac arrest call and helped save Hatcher's life.

Samantha Hansen

A Wright County Deputy who responded to the cardiac arrest call and helped save Hatcher's life.

Samina Strandmo

A Wright County Deputy who responded to the cardiac arrest call and helped save Hatcher's life.

Marcy Dearing

A Wright County Deputy who also responded to the cardiac arrest call and will receive a Life Saving Award at a later date.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.