By Sharyn L. Decker
Lewis County Sirens news reporter
Morton Police Officer Perry Royle suffered a life-threatening medical event while on duty Tuesday night and is on life support.
The police department issued a news release today, saying the 54-year-old officer was able to summon help for himself, but lost consciousness shortly after reaching the hospital.
He was first taken to Morton General Hospital and then to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, according to Police Clerk Michelle Matchett.
Chief Dan Mortensen spent yesterday with Royle and his family at the hospital, awaiting news on his longtime friend and comrade, according to Matchett.
Royle has been with the department since 2002, and is Mortensen’s only officer.
The chief is headed back to Harborview this afternoon.
“He’s a very good family man, loves to hunt and fish,” Mortensen said. “He’s a good member of the community and always willing to step up when needed.”