Lawrence police officer to attend State of the Union with Trahan

LAWRENCE, Mass. — Lawrence Police Officer Ivan Soto will be Congresswoman Lori Trahan’s guest to the State of the Union Address.

During the Merrimack Valley gas explosions, Soto responded to fires while his own home went up in flames from a gas explosion. He left his home burning so he could evacuate all of his neighbors and go back on duty.

>>RELATED: Officer loses home while trying to help teen killed during gas explosions

Firefighters were overwhelmed with other fires in the city and were unable to get to Soto’s home in time to save it.

Soto was given the option to take a leave to attend to his home and family but he chose to 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.”

President Trump will deliver his State of the Union Address Tuesday at 9 p.m.

Cox Media Group