The sign in front of the 4th Precinct said “Pray for Officer Holm.” It’s a simple message, and yet, the events that led to that message were devastating to Dave Holm, his immediate family, friends and his extended Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) family as well. Shortly before 1 p.m. on December 31, on an icy road in Isanti County, David and his wife Melinda were involved in a tragic car crash. Melinda died at the scene, and Dave suffered 2nd and 3rd degree burns over 45 percent of his body. Dave suffered many of those burns trying to free Melinda from the wreckage of the burning vehicle. He never gave up. A passing motorist had to pull Dave back from the wreckage. As of this writing, Dave is being treated in the burn unit at Hennepin County Medical Center. His two children, Lindy and Dusty, are being cared for by relatives.
Dave is a 20 year veteran of the MPD, and dedicated most of that career to serving Northside residents. He has touched the lives of hundreds of us. His commitment to, and love for, the 4th Precinct has made a material difference in the quality of life for many Northside residents and workers.
Due to Dave’s condition, Hennepin County Medical Center is strictly limiting his visitors. A website has been set up for those who wish to send their thoughts and support to Dave and his family in this difficult time: www.caringbridge.org/visit/davidholm. The site contains a guestbook for visitors to express their thoughts and feelings, and show their love and support for Dave, a journal that updates Dave’s condition as he recovers, and information on how we can all show our support for Dave and his children.
Dave’s recovery from his physical injuries will no doubt be slow and difficult, and his medical expenses will be enormous. A fund has been set up at City-County Federal Credit Union in support of the David Holm Family. Make donations to The David Holm Family Fund, City-County Federal Credit Union, 3651 Central Ave. NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418.
Another way to help is by donating blood. Dave’s recovery is requiring a lot of blood, and cases like this often have an impact on blood bank reserves. War Memorial Blood Center recently held a blood drive in Dave’s name at the Police Federation offices on University Avenue. While the event was very successful, there is always a need for more. You can help support Dave’s recovery by contacting the War Memorial Blood Center at 651-332-7000 to learn more about donating blood. Your donation can’t be earmarked specifically for Dave, but it will help replenish the supply.
As important as these measures are, they pale in comparison to the devastation suffered by David, Lindy, Dusty, friends and family. Please take a moment to visit the CaringBridge website and sign the guestbook. Let them know you care, and let Dave know that you appreciate all he does for the citizens of the 4th Precinct. Then hug your kids, kiss your hunni, and tell them that you love them.