STATEHOUSE (Feb. 20, 2012) – State Sen. Jim Merritt (R-Indianapolis) led the full Senate today in honoring the Hoosier heroes who “worked quickly and efficiently” to save the lives of many involved in the tragic Indiana State Fair stage collapse this past August.

Merritt thanked the Indianapolis Fire Department, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, Indiana State Police and Emergency Medical Services on the Senate floor by offering a resolution in recognition of their efforts the night of the stage collapse. In all, 46 victims were promptly treated and transported to local hospitals within one hour after the stage had fallen.

“No Hoosier will ever forget the tragic events of August 13, 2011,” Merritt said. “That being said, there’s one more thing many of the victims’ families will never forget—the courage and bravery shown by all of the Indianapolis emergency crews, volunteers and everyday Hoosiers who went well beyond their call of duty to save lives that night. Today, the Indiana Senate recognizes that courage and bravery, too. We are fortunate to have so many dedicated and model citizens right here in our state and in our communities.”

Today’s resolution is just Merritt’s latest response to the tragedy. He also co-authored Senate Bill 273 to adopt a permit and inspection process for all outdoor staging equipment. This legislation has been approved by the full Senate and is awaiting further action in the House of Representatives.

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