08/11/2026
Capital City Lodge #9 to Honor Westerville Officers for Extraordinary Bravery
At our August Membership Meeting, the Dewey R. Stokes Capital City Lodge #9 will proudly recognize Westerville Police Officers Clayton Schaefer and Darik Breuninger, both members of our Lodge, for their extraordinary courage and selfless actions on September 27, 2025.
At approximately 6:45 a.m., the officers responded to a residence on a report of a 16-year-old female experiencing a mental health crisis. Upon arrival, they observed the juvenile standing on the roof of a garage, approximately 16 feet above the ground.
As the officers attempted to communicate with her and de-escalate the situation, the juvenile suddenly jumped from the roof headfirst. Without hesitation and with complete disregard for their own safety, Officers Schaefer and Breuninger rushed forward and caught her, breaking her fall and undoubtedly saving her life.
The juvenile was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Unfortunately, Officer Breuninger sustained serious injuries during the rescue and remains off duty recovering while awaiting surgery.
Lodge President Brian Steel praised the officers' actions, stating:
"This incident is a powerful reminder of the dangers our FOP members face every day, often without warning. It is also a testament to their extraordinary courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to protecting the lives of others, even complete strangers. These officers lived the oath they took to serve and protect, placing another person's life ahead of their own. We could not be prouder of Officers Schaefer and Breuninger, and it is our honor to recognize their bravery."
