A Lacey Police Department officer became a local sensation on social media after video footage circulated showing him directing traffic at a crash scene while wearing a full-body banana costume. The incident occurred at the intersection of College and Pacific Avenues, where the officer’s unusual appearance drew immediate attention from drivers and bystanders alike.
Community Event Leads to Unusual Response
According to the Lacey Police Department, the officer was participating in the “Costume with a Cop” event, a community outreach initiative organized by the department’s Community Resource Division. The event was being hosted at a nearby Starbucks location. When the call came in regarding a traffic-snarling accident, several officers were already engaged in the activity. Due to other calls being answered by different units, one of the resource officers volunteered to head to the scene immediately.
Upon arrival, the officer found that victims involved in the collision had sustained only minor injuries. While other personnel focused on triaging the individuals, the officer in the banana suit took charge of directing traffic and coordinating the arrival of emergency medical services. The Lacey Police Department noted that the officer did not have sufficient time to remove the costume before beginning his duties at the intersection.
Department officials stated that the bright yellow attire actually proved beneficial in managing the flow of vehicles. The distinctive color made the officer highly visible, ensuring that drivers noticed him and followed his directions to steer traffic around the scene. This visibility helped prevent further congestion and allowed emergency vehicles to access the area more efficiently.
Return to Community Engagement
Once the crash scene was fully cleared and traffic resumed its normal pattern, the officer returned to the Starbucks location to assist in concluding the “Costume with a Cop” event. The incident highlights the blend of community engagement and emergency response that defines the work of the Community Resource Division. The video, which was shared by the Lacey Police Department via their Facebook page, quickly gained traction, illustrating the human side of law enforcement and the creative ways officers interact with the public.
The Lacey Police Department emphasized that this response was part of their standard procedures for community events, where officers remain on standby to assist with any arising issues. The minor nature of the injuries involved in the crash allowed for a quick resolution, enabling the officer to rejoin his colleagues for the remainder of the gathering. The event serves as a reminder of the diverse roles that police officers play beyond traditional patrol duties, fostering stronger connections between the department and the residents of Thurston County.