Police join Frates family to take part in Ice Bucket Challenge

BEVERLY, Mass. — Police in the hometown of the man who inspired the Ice Bucket Challenge hosted one with his family Sunday morning.

Beverly Police Chief John LeLacheur says officers and Pete Frates' family took the challenge Sunday. The department also challenged other officers, firefighters, emergency workers and the public to participate.

The event took place at 9 a.m. at Lynch Park.

Frates inspired the ice bucket challenge that has raised more than $220 million for Lou Gehrig's disease research since 2014.

The Massachusetts native and former Boston College baseball star was diagnosed in 2012 with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS. There is no known cure for the disease, which weakens muscles and impairs physical functioning.

During the challenge, participants dump buckets of ice water over their heads and challenge others to do the same to promote ALS awareness and encourage donations.

Beverly police had asked people heading to Lynch Park for the event to bring buckets, ice, water and donations, if possible.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Cox Media Group