ST. LOUIS — One 15-year-old spent his Saturday morning running for a hero, killed in the line of duty. Officer David Lee was hit and killed by a vehicle along Interstate 70 on Sept. 22, 2024, but his impact on the community still holds true.
That's why youth runner, Zachary Pruss, held the 'Blue Line Flag' and dedicated his run in South St. Louis to the hero, who is no longer with us.
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"It seemed like such a great and lovely thing to do for people that have given so much to their communities," he said.
That's exactly what Officer Lee did for 18 years at the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. Pruss is part of the nonprofit, 'Running 4 Heroes,' and this specific run hit close to home.
"This run impacts me quite a bit, especially because I don't live too, too far away. We are about a three-hour drive north from here," he said.
The organization has honored thousands of first responders, who have lost their lives in the line of duty, each one represented with their own one-mile run. Pruss said he loves what 'Running 4 Heroes' mission represents.
"It's just one more way to give back to the community. Makes me really honored to be able to run for such a great people," he said.
Pruss comes from a family of first responders, so he knows the sacrifice these heroes make daily. He hopes he can be a role model for his community and beyond.
"Stepping up for different people that help the community and serve in such tremendous ways and give their life, like Officer Lee did is, is an amazing way to be able to give back," he said.
With every step Pruss takes, the runner has this message for Officer Lee's family, friends, and the entire St. Louis Police Department.
"Keep fighting. Officer Lee made a huge sacrifice to his community that will never be forgotten through the department and its citizens, and we all here at 'Running 4 Heroes' are all praying for you," he said.
'Running 4 Heroes' was founded in 2019 by a 10-year-old who made it his mission to run a mile every time a first responder lost their life in the line of duty.
As of Nov. 16, 2024, the nonprofit has run more than 1,850 miles for fallen first responders and 100-plus miles for first responder K9s.
You can donate to the organization here.
