The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics Rhode Island brought together law enforcement, fire, corrections and justice personnel from across the state for the annual LETR Heroes Pull on Sunday, Oct. 4, at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick.

This year’s event featured 110 participants representing 12 teams from departments and agencies throughout Rhode Island, all coming together to test their strength, teamwork and speed while raising funds to support Special Olympics Rhode Island athletes.

East Providence had two teams compete in the event this year. One was a hybrid team composed of both the fire department and police department, and included Greg Dubee, Christopher Drury, Ricky Hoey, Mitch Prario, Justin Rapp, Patrick Holmes, Ryan Czajka and Tyler Elmasian.

The second team was EPPD's Special Response Team (SRT), composed of Nathan DaCosta, Julian Reis, Matthew Wilson, Jay Rainville, Ryan Feeney, Roland Estrada, Daniel Pickering, Stephen Ohsberg and Matthew Mailhot.

Teams faced off in a series of challenges that required them to pull a fire truck, police vehicle and massive tractor trailer 40 feet in the fastest time possible. The competition culminated in an exciting tractor trailer pull featuring the top teams.

The Rhode Island Department of Corrections took home the title of 2026 Heroes Pull Champion, with the Rhode Island State Police finishing as the runner-up and Pawtucket Fire placing third.

Thanks to the incredible support of this year’s participants, sponsors and supporters, the event raised nearly $6,000 for Special Olympics Rhode Island. Proceeds from the Heroes Pull help provide year-round sports, health and leadership opportunities for Special Olympics Rhode Island athletes.

“This event is a great example of the incredible partnership between the Law Enforcement Torch Run and Special Olympics Rhode Island,” said Ed Pacheco, President & CEO of Special Olympics Rhode Island. “The Heroes Pull brings together departments from across the state for some friendly competition, but most importantly, it helps raise critical funds that directly support our athletes and the programs they participate in throughout the year.”

The event was led by LETR Co-Director Officer Frank Matarese and included Special Olympics Rhode Island athletes and Athlete Leaders throughout the event.