We are now assisting the family of Lt. Sarah McCarthy who died in the line of duty on December 9, 2025, as a result of a cardiac event suffered 18 days prior.
Lt. McCarthy was 48 years old. She served as a police dispatcher for the cities of Glendale, Kirkwood and Creve Coeur, and she served as a reserve firefighter with the Eureka Fire Protection District from 1999 to 2004. She served with the St. Charles County Ambulance District as a full-time paramedic since 2002. She left behind her husband and children.
“My deepest thoughts and condolences are with the McCarthy family and all who knew and loved Lt. Sarah McCarthy. We will stand by her family, honor her legacy and never forget the ultimate sacrifice she made for the safety of our community.” – Lt. Col. Lawrence O’Toole, BackStoppers Executive Director
Our hearts are with Lt. McCarthy’s family, friends, co-workers and all the communities and lives she touched.


When a line of duty death occurs, The BackStoppers steps in with immediate assistance that is then ongoing. After immediately providing $10,000 to the family to be used in whatever way they need, we meet with the family of the fallen, eliminate their debt, and arrange to provide ongoing support for expenses such as health care, tuition, and more. The BackStoppers is always there. We’re able to offer life-long assistance to the families of the fallen because of the generous support of members and donors.
We recognize the tremendous sacrifices that public servants make every day when they go to work. We understand the burdens placed on surviving spouses and children when tragedies occur. We believe our community has an obligation to care for the loved ones of those who have protected us. We accept the responsibility to make that happen. Join us in our cause. Help us provide life-long support for families of fallen heroes by donating or joining online or by mail to the address below.
The BackStoppers, Inc.
PO Box 795168
Saint Louis, MO 63179-0700
More Ways to Help
• Become an Annual or Monthly Member
• Volunteer
• Attend a Fundraising Event


