Press Releases

Lawrence, MA -- Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-06) announced that Officer Ivan Soto of the Lawrence, MA Police Department will be her guest to the State of the Union Address.

During the deadly gas explosions across the Merrimack Valley in September of 2018, Lawrence Police Officer Ivan Soto worked tirelessly in support of his community, responding to fires even when his own house went up in flames from a gas explosion. Officer Soto courageously evacuated all of his neighbors, leaving his home burning so he could go back on duty to assist others. Tragically, firefighters were overwhelmed with the other fires in the city and were unable to get to Soto’s house in time to save it. Officer Soto was given the option to take leave to attend to his home and family, but instead chose to immediately return to the line of duty to help others once he confirmed his family was safe.

“I am honored to have Officer Soto as my guest for the State of the Union. During last September’s disaster, Ivan became a symbol of resilience and courage that our community needed, and still needs as we continue to recover from this unimaginable tragedy. Even as his own house burned and his life was flipped upside down, Ivan turned his attention to the community he swore to protect and serve. His selflessness and dedication to others is an inspiration,” said Rep. Trahan. “As the communities of Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover continue to recover, I am proud to shine a spotlight on Officer Soto’s heroic actions. I will continue to do everything in my power to hold those responsible for this disaster accountable so that the tragedies experienced in our communities are never experienced elsewhere. In this time of great political division, we are reminded of what matters most- commitment to community and lifting up the stories of Americans who are making a difference.”  

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