Golden Valley Police Give Child Burn Victim Escort Home from Hospital

It’s not everyday you get a standing ovation from first responders. That’s what happened Monday morning for a boy injured during an unfortunate campfire incident.

First responders lined up outside the HCMC Burn Center in Minneapolis to cheer on Henry Holland, who needed two of months of hospitalization to recover from severe burns.

Holland suffered his injuries while making s’mores at a friend’s home in Golden Valley last March.

To mark his return home, Golden Valley police, firefighters and Hennepin County sheriff deputies gave Holland an escort back to his home in Minneapolis.

“This was just our way of showing how much this young man means to us and his recovery,” said Golden Valley Police Chief Virgil Green. “He’s got a long road to go. But this is just a small part we can play with getting the family home.”

Although they didn’t wish to be interviewed on camera, the Holland family said they were incredibly grateful by the gesture from first responders.

“I’m a parent, grandparent. And when a child is hurt, [it’s] something that touches all of us, and especially with police and fire,” said Green. 

Green also learned that Henry has a passion for police and firefighter work.

To honor that, Golden Valley plans to make him an honorary officer, complete with a uniform and a badge.

Golden Valley Police Chief Virgil Green meets with Henry Holland and his family

Golden Valley | Twin Cities