It is said the police fraternity is one of the closest knit of all the professions, and that was evident Thursday in Warren as colleagues of Patrolman Doug Hipple gathered to pray for him and the other three victims from Tuesday's arson fire.
Hipple ran into a burning house on Bonnie Brae in an attempt to rescue the three mentally challenged women who lived in the group home.
"He's always been a first responder, a hostage negotiator. He always wants to jump in," said Patrol Officer Rich Kovach.
Detective Mike Currington, who went to the police academy with Hipple, agreed. "He is always here for everyone. He puts the other person first; a cop through and through," Currington said.
Hipple remains at Akron Burn Center. "He is still in critical condition. There are highs and lows and right now it is just a waiting game," said Hipple's brother Dave.
The three women also remain in the hospital in serious but stable condition.
The fire has been ruled an arson. Meanwhile, no arrests have been made but investigators were back out at the house Thursday searching for evidence and talking to witnesses. A detective with the Warren police department has also been assigned to the case.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Warren police or fire departments.
