KENNEWICK, Wash. – The Kennewick Police Department celebrated National Night Out at the Southridge Sports Complex, offering a unique opportunity for officers to connect with the community in a relaxed setting.
The event featured food, games, and a sense of summertime fun. Kennewick Police Commander Issac Merkl highlighted the importance of these interactions, saying, “It’s really about that connection at a more personal level.”
Typically, police officers meet residents during challenging times, making community building difficult. However, events like National Night Out provide a different atmosphere. “We get to really make sure it’s laid back, have a lot more fun,” Merkl added.
The city of Kennewick embraced the event by involving city council members, police, and fire departments. A highlight of the evening was a helicopter landing from the LifeFlight network, giving attendees an up-close look at emergency response equipment.
Commander Merkl emphasized how the event helps break down barriers between officers and residents. “We want everybody to be able to feel like they’re safe in their neighborhood,” he stated. “This event gives us that connection and the ability to have that conversation and then feel comfortable to help us achieve that.”
The festivities were scheduled to continue until 7:30 p.m., offering plenty of time for community members to engage with local law enforcement in a positive and enjoyable environment.
