Image Of Heartbreaking Car Wreck Draws Attention For A Surprising And Subtle Reason

Note: This story is being republished; it originally gained attention in August 2016.

A police officer in Georgia provided comfort to an 8-year-old boy injured in a car crash on an interstate.

Commerce Police Sgt. Kay Denton captured a photograph at the scene that depicted fellow officer Cpl. Christopher Holly’s compassionate act, as reported by WSB-TV.

The young boy had been trapped beneath a severely damaged car. Denton, initially concerned for the child’s well-being, was reassured after witnessing Holly’s interaction with him. She described the scene, stating, “This child, an eight-year-old boy, was terrified and suffering from internal injuries. Officer Holly laid on the ground, cradling the boy’s head in his hand and soothing him to keep him calm.”

During their interaction, Holly discovered that the accident had occurred on the boy’s birthday.

“At one point, the boy reached out and patted the officer on the head, then began playing with the officer’s hair!” Denton recounted.

She concluded with these words: “THIS is why I chose to become a police officer – to assist and support people in need, regardless of circumstances or skin color. Despite the negative portrayal of law enforcement in the media and stories of misconduct, I wanted to share THIS.”

Officer Holly has served with the Commerce Police Department since 2013, according to WSB-TV.

Sources: WSB-TV