SPOKANE, Wash. – The 2025 Washington Governor’s Life Saving Awards recognized individuals who have gone above and beyond over the last year. Among the honorees were two men who came together to save a woman’s life in Seattle.
Damon Koler and John Ayala were awarded for their brave actions after an 80-year-old woman was attacked when someone stole her car and ran her over.
Koler acted quickly, grabbing a bat and smashing the car windows with the suspect still inside. He managed to free five dogs that were in the car. Meanwhile, Ayala performed CPR on the woman until paramedics arrived. Unfortunately, she later died from her injuries.
The suspect was arrested for running over and killing the woman. Koler and Ayala were nominated for the award by the woman’s granddaughter and expressed that receiving the award was an incredible honor.
“I couldn’t imagine my family members being in a situation like this and not having help,” Ayala said. “I did the only thing I knew I could do to try and help. Like I would want somebody to do for my friends my coworkers and my family.”
Both men emphasized the importance of community and helping others, even when it is frightening. They urged people to step in and assist their fellow neighbors when needed.
