Central Berks Regional Police Officer Kristen Yeager died Friday evening after a crash while responding to assist a neighboring police department in Earl Township, according to a statement released by the department.
The department announced Yeager’s death with “profound sadness and heavy hearts,” describing her as a dedicated officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
According to emergency communications, first responders were dispatched shortly before 8 p.m. Friday to the intersection of Manatawny Road and Shoemaker Road in Earl Township for a reported crash involving a police vehicle. Emergency communications indicated the officer suffered critical injuries and CPR was performed at the scene.
The Central Berks Regional Police Department said Yeager was responding to an emergency assist for a neighboring department when the incident occurred.
The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under active investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police.
Police said no additional information is being released at this time. Further information will be provided by the Pennsylvania State Police as it becomes available and appropriate for public release.
Yeager served with the department for two-and-a-half years and was remembered by colleagues as an officer who served her community with courage, compassion and unwavering dedication.
“Throughout her career, she exemplified the highest standards of law enforcement, selflessly answering the call to protect and serve while placing the safety and well-being of others above her own,” the department said in its statement.
The department said her commitment to her profession, fellow officers and the community she served left a lasting impact that will not be forgotten.
“Officer Yeager embodied the values of honor, integrity, and service, and her sacrifice stands as a testament to the risks law enforcement officers face each day in the line of duty,” the statement said.
The department asked the public to keep Yeager’s husband, three children, family, friends, colleagues and the entire law enforcement community in their thoughts during this difficult time.
In addition to her service as a police officer, Yeager was remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother and cherished friend whose impact extended beyond her work in law enforcement.
“While Officer Yeager’s watch has come to an end, her legacy of service, dedication, and sacrifice will endure forever in the hearts of those who knew her and the community she so proudly served,” the department said.