Thief Takes Girl's Birthday Bike, Dispatchers Rally for Replacement

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on Aug. 26.

Keira Gray’s mother saved all year long to buy a bike for her 10-year-old daughter on her birthday. The gift-giving was a success and the Waterford mom and daughter were thrilled with the bike.The excitement quickly turned to dismay when Keira’s bike was stolen the night of Tuesday, Aug. 25. Her mom reported the alleged theft to the Waterford Police Department.

Dispatchers Laurie Lewis and Ronnie Williams took the call and their hearts ached for Keira and her mom.

“They decided they were going to help out,” Waterford Police Department officers said via Facebook. “Laurie and Ronnie decided that they were going to replace the bike for Keira, and got the other WECC dispatchers in on it. Together they put together their money, enough to buy Keira the exact same bike, a helmet, a lock (it’s not getting stolen again) and a gift certificate for school supplies.”

The bike was delivered to Keira on Wednesday, Aug. 26, by Williams and dispatcher Amy Gough, with assistance from Officer Troy Gelinas. Mom and daughter were surprised and delighted to see such positivity born out of a negative situation.

“[Keira] was very excited, and the WECC dispatchers involved were very happy to make her smile,” police said. “Way to go WECC dispatchers, you always do a great job, but really went above and beyond this time!”

The Waterford-area community was equally as elated.

• “I am truly in awe of how kindhearted you all are,” Shannon Gray-Mayer posted on the Waterford Police Department’s Facebook post. “Keira is my niece and such a great little girl. I’m sure she is ecstatic over getting her birthday present back!”

• “Thank you, what a kind gesture. Thank you for all you do to keep Waterford citizens safe.” — Maureen Brennan St Pierre

• “I’m so proud of all of you! Wonderful gesture.. you’re the best!” — Lynn Denison

• “Genuine kindness. So nice to read.” — Carol Zajac Weymouth

Want to share a birthday wish for Keira? Post it in the comments below.

(Photos: Waterford Police Department)