News

Courtney Ellis, daughter of St. Louis County Police Officer James “Mitch” Ellis, Jr., EOW 10/11/19, journeyed to Madison, Wisconsin to participate in the Summer Dance Intensive at Magnus Opus Ballet. The Summer Dance Intensive is a program for intermediate to advanced dancers who want to […]

We are honoring the legacy of Paramedic Michael Clarke who died in the line of duty on October 14, 2024. Paramedic Clarke was found unresponsive at the St. Charles County Ambulance District after having run nine emergency calls during a 48-hour shift. Paramedic Clarke was 27 […]

Supporting the Families of Fallen Heroes Since 1959 As we reach the end of 2024, The BackStoppers, a 501(c)3 organization, wishes to thank everyone for their generous support. We invite you to consider supporting our mission at this special time of year. Donations in any amount […]

Sch'erica Wilson, daughter of EMT Scherese Bishop, EOW 3/11/11, recently successfully completed all requirements to become a paramedic at the Northeast Ambulance Fire Protection District, the same department her mother had served. We are very proud of Sch'erica and her desire to continue to shine as […]

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Elizabeth “Liz” Woodland, widow of fallen hero Firefighter Oliver Woodland, Sr.   Liz was a beloved member of the BackStoppers family for 51 years and was 91 years old. On July 2, 1973, Liz’s husband, […]

We are now assisting the family of Deputy Sheriff Dennis Boyd who died in the line of duty on September 25, 2024. Deputy Sheriff Boyd was found unresponsive at the Civil Court Building. Deputy Sheriff Boyd was 50 years old and had served with the City […]

We are now assisting the family of Officer David Lee who died in the line of duty on September 22, 2024. Officer Lee was struck by a vehicle while working an accident. Officer Lee was 44-years old and had served with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police […]

We are now assisting the family of Capt. James Cova who died in the line of duty on July 9, 2024. Capt. Cova was found unresponsive at the Affton Fire Protection District after responding to multiple calls. Capt. James Cova was 54 years old and had […]

The BackStoppers is excited to announce the appointment of Lawrence (Larry) O’Toole as the organization’s new Executive Director. His appointment comes as Chief Ron Battelle prepares to retire at the end of this year after a distinguished tenure leading the organization.  Former Chief O’Toole was selected […]

The BackStoppers is now assisting Officer Travis Brown of the Ferguson Police Department who was catastrophically injured when he was knocked to the ground during a protest early Saturday morning on August 10, 2024. We are fervently praying for Officer Brown and hoping for a full […]