A heartfelt ceremony took place on Tuesday (June 9) at Exeter Township Senior High School to honor Officer Kristen Yeager, a dedicated Central Berks Regional Police officer who tragically died in a patrol car crash while responding to a call on May 29. Hundreds, including family, friends, and fellow officers, gathered to pay their respects.
Yeager, 42, was remembered as a devoted public servant, wife, and mother of three. During the service, Central Berks Regional Police Chief Justin Johnson praised her dedication, stating, "You served with honor, dedication, and courage." Governor Josh Shapiro also attended, emphasizing Yeager's compassion and the legacy she leaves for her children.
The ceremony included a solemn procession led by police motorcycles and concluded with Yeager's final radio call and the playing of taps, a tribute to her service. Yeager's passing comes during a time of compounded grief for her family, following the recent death of her father, Kenny Houck.
Community support continues with several fundraisers planned to assist Yeager's family, including an event at Rita's in Mount Penn. Yeager's life and service have left a lasting impact on her community, as noted by Reverend Paul Jones, who recalled Yeager's unwavering commitment to becoming a police officer since her graduation from Exeter High School in 2002.