[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 56 (Tuesday, May 7, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S3949]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       IN MEMORY OF STEVE LOVATO

 Mr. DOMENICI. Madam President, I rise today to honor Steve 
Lovato, an outstanding individual who lost his life in service to 
others.
  Steve Lovato was an EMT known for his strong work ethic and his 
helpfulness to others. His coworkers praised him for his dedication to 
the job, and he was well recognized for his service to the community.
  Being an EMT, Steve knew that the financial reward would not be 
great. He would often face many dangers that are inherent with the job. 
However, Steve liked doing what was right and worked as an EMT because 
he wanted to help people. That is why it saddens me to know of the 
tragic loss of this noble individual.
  Nearly two months ago, Steve and his partner, Margie Muccie, 
responded to a 911 call where a man, Paul Freeman, had been injured by 
a burning home. While trying to give Mr. Freeman medical attention, the 
mentally unstable individual pulled out a gun and shot and killed 
Steve. He also killed Roswell Fire Chief, Louis Jones, and his good 
Samaritan neighbor who had called for help, Randy Houghton. Randy's son 
was also critically injured by Mr. Freeman.
  This terrible event has had a profound effect on the community of 
Roswell. It has also deepened my resolve to address issues that affect 
the mentally ill. I have long worked to help people who suffer from 
diseases of the brain, and I believe that better treatment options for 
Mr. Freeman could have prevented this terrible tragedy. I will continue 
to seek out the best possible ways to help those that suffer from 
mental illness.
  Steve made the ultimate sacrifice in service to others; he lost his 
life in the line of duty. I am proud to have represented a man like 
Steve, and I send my heartfelt condolences to his wife, Josephine, and 
his son, Alex. He went above and beyond the call of duty and showed 
unparalleled compassion for his fellow man. I am proud to honor him 
here today and to know of his heroic efforts.
  I also wish to express my greatest sympathies to the friends and 
families of Louis Jones and Randy Houghton. These men should also be 
honored for their efforts in trying to help others.

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