<p dir="ltr">In Alexandria, Kentucky, most days unfold with a familiar rhythm. But on November 15, 2024, an urgent call shattered the calm. A man in his 30s, Matt, had suddenly collapsed in his basement and was unresponsive. For his family, time stood still as a life hung in the balance. For the Alexandria Police Department, it was a call to serve, answered by an officer uniquely prepared for this exact moment.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Call That Changed Everything</h2>
<p dir="ltr">When the dispatch came through, Officer Whitney Buerger was the first on the scene. She arrived to find Matt&rsquo;s partner, Jasmine, and her mother already performing CPR, a crucial first step in the chain of survival. Officer Buerger knew that every second was critical. &ldquo;Anytime we have somebody down, we don&rsquo;t know what&rsquo;s going on, I grab the AED, I grab Narcan, I grab gloves,&rdquo; she later explained, highlighting an instinct to be prepared for anything. In her patrol car was a brand-new Avive Connect AED, a piece of equipment she had received just two days earlier as part of a new public safety program.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">The Right Tools, The Right Person</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Without hesitation, Officer Buerger brought the device to Matt&rsquo;s side. Though she hadn&rsquo;t yet had formal training on this specific model, she followed the clear, calm prompts of the machine. Within 26 seconds, the AED advised and delivered a shock. The life-saving intervention worked, restoring Matt&rsquo;s pulse before paramedics arrived. He would later learn he had coronary heart disease. Thanks to the quick actions of his family and Officer Buerger, he has since returned home. For the officer, the call was a powerful reminder of her purpose. &ldquo;It kind of solidified why I got into this field: to help people,&rdquo; she said.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Full-Circle Moment of Hope</h2>
<p dir="ltr">This rescue was more than just a professional success for Officer Buerger; it was deeply personal. When she was just 14 years old, she experienced a sudden cardiac arrest herself and was saved by a defibrillator. The experience gave her a profound sense of empathy for Matt and his family. &ldquo;Being able to be here today and relate to him on that level, and see his second chance at life and see what he&rsquo;s going to do for his girls, it&rsquo;s good,&rdquo; she shared. Her heroic act was the first save for <a href="https://cincinnatirotary.org/events-news/calendar/2024/12/annual-holiday-program-ugly-sweater-contest/">Project Heart Restart</a>, a regional partnership between the Rotary Club of Cincinnati, St. Elizabeth Healthcare, and The Christ Hospital Health Network that equipped 168 cruisers with AEDs. For her actions, Officer Buerger later received the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=990688566429459&amp;set=a.234529995378657">Excellence in Service Award</a>.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Final Thought</h2>
<p dir="ltr">This is more than just a story of a single rescue. It shows how community partnerships and equipping officers with the right tools can lead to a positive outcome. Officer Buerger&rsquo;s story is a perfect example of humanizing the badge, showing an officer whose personal journey turned her into the perfect person to be in the right place, at the right time.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Read more inspiring stories of officer dedication and community impact on <a href="http://welovepolice.org/stories">welovepolice.org/stories</a>.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr">1. Are police officers trained to handle medical emergencies?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Yes. Police officers receive regular first aid, CPR, and basic life support training. Because they are often the first to arrive at an emergency, their ability to provide immediate medical assistance before paramedics get there is a critical part of their job. Many departments are also equipping officers with tools like AEDs and naloxone to handle cardiac and overdose emergencies.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">2. What does an AED do and is it hard to use?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">An AED, or Automated External Defibrillator, is a smart medical device that analyzes a person&rsquo;s heart rhythm. If it detects a life-threatening irregular rhythm, it can deliver a controlled electrical shock to restore a normal heartbeat. Modern AEDs are designed for the public and are very simple to use; they provide clear, step-by-step voice instructions to guide the user through the entire process.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">3. Why is it so important for police to carry AEDs in their cars?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">In a sudden cardiac arrest, every minute without defibrillation decreases the chance of survival by about 10%. Since police on patrol can often reach a scene faster than an ambulance, having an AED in their vehicle can dramatically cut down the time to the first shock. This turns a police cruiser into a mobile life-saving unit, significantly boosting survival rates in the community.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">4. What is the "chain of survival" in a cardiac emergency?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">The "chain of survival" is a sequence of actions that, when performed quickly, give a person in cardiac arrest the best chance of survival. The steps include: immediately calling 911, starting high-quality CPR, using an AED as soon as possible, and the arrival of advanced medical responders who can provide further care.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">5. How do community partnerships help law enforcement agencies?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Community partnerships, like those between police departments, local hospitals, and civic groups like the Rotary Club, are vital. They allow for the funding and acquisition of expensive, life-saving equipment like AEDs that might be outside a department's budget. This collaboration improves public safety and builds stronger relationships between officers and the communities they serve.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">6. What's the difference between a heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">A heart attack is a "plumbing" problem where blood flow to the heart is blocked. The person is usually awake and breathing. Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is an "electrical" problem where the heart suddenly stops beating unexpectedly. The person collapses, is unresponsive, and is not breathing normally. While a heart attack can sometimes trigger SCA, they are different conditions.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">7. What are the first steps to take if someone has a cardiac arrest?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">If you see someone collapse and they are unresponsive, first ensure the scene is safe, then call 911 immediately. If they are not breathing normally, begin chest compressions (CPR) right away. If another person is available, have them find the nearest AED. Using an AED and performing CPR until emergency crews arrive can double or even triple a person's chance of survival.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Sources:</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Primary Story and Video Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fox19.com/2025/08/20/northern-kentucky-police-officer-saves-mans-life-using-an-aed/">Northern Kentucky police officer saves man&rsquo;s life using an AED | FOX 19 Now</a> (via WXIX) (by Brady Williams)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Additional Reporting: <a href="https://www.police1.com/police-heroes/ky-officer-saves-cardiac-arrest-victim-just-48-hours-after-aed-cruiser-deployment">Ky. officer saves cardiac arrest victim just 48 hours after AED cruiser deployment | Police1</a> (by Sarah Roebuck)&nbsp;</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Image Source: <a href="https://redirect.viglink.com/?format=go&amp;jsonp=vglnk_175757036117213&amp;key=dc4ebe69b0b2a44793c4515769fa8481&amp;libId=mfezjbc50103plyb000ULb8nl63yi&amp;loc=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.police1.com%2Fpolice-heroes%2Fky-officer-saves-cardiac-arrest-victim-just-48-hours-after-aed-cruiser-deployment&amp;ccpaConsent=1---&amp;v=1&amp;out=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fphoto%2F%3Ffbid%3D990688566429459%26set%3Da.234529995378657&amp;ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F&amp;title=AED%20saves%20life%2048%20hours%20after%20Kentucky%20police%20deployment&amp;txt=recognized%20by%20city%20leaders">City of Alexandria, Kentucky | Facebook</a></p>
</li>
</ul>

Inspirational Stories

Learn about Project Heart Restart and the Alexandria officer who proved its value by saving a life just days after the program launched.


KY Officer Saved by AED as Teen Uses One to Save a Man's Life

Right Tool, Right Time: Inside an Alexandria Officer's Rescue

<p dir="ltr">During a routine patrol over Baltimore, the day took a dramatic turn for Tactical Flight Officer Andre &ldquo;Dre&rdquo; Smith Jr. and Flight Officer Craig Hoover. A call came over the radio from emergency dispatch that grabbed their full attention: a &ldquo;drowning arrest out of water.&rdquo; A 25-year-old man needed immediate help at the closed Walter P. Carter Pool. For that man, it was a life-or-death call, and the officers knew every second was critical.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Critical View from Above</h2>
<p dir="ltr">From their vantage point in the Foxtrot helicopter, the officers had a clear but grim view. The situation was dire. Officer Smith&rsquo;s voice could be heard making a swift, professional assessment over the police radio: "I'm putting the helicopter down in the field. This guy looks like he's not breathing or moving. He's in cardiac arrest. Have a medic get here ASAP." His partner, Officer Hoover, immediately began looking for an opening where he could safely land.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">An Unprecedented Landing</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The moment called for a split-second decision that went far beyond standard procedure. &ldquo;Dre pretty much said, &lsquo;I&rsquo;ll CPR if you can get me on the ground,&rsquo;&rdquo; Officer Hoover recalled. With that, Hoover located a small, grassy field at a nearby school and expertly piloted the helicopter to the ground. This type of field landing was a first for both men. "We&rsquo;ve never had anything in the books for landing in a grassy area in the back of a school to do a water rescue,&rdquo; Smith later explained.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Life Restored on the Ground</h2>
<p dir="ltr">As soon as the helicopter was down, Officer Smith sprinted from the aircraft to save the man. His training and experience instantly took over. &ldquo;I actually used to be a lifeguard in the city. That was my high school job pretty much up until I joined the police academy, so I knew right away &mdash; just looking at him on the video &mdash; that he was in bad shape, and he needed compressions pretty quick,&rdquo; Smith told 11 News. His decisive actions worked, and he was able to get the man breathing again. Reflecting on the rescue, Smith praised his partner&rsquo;s crucial role: &ldquo;It was a tight spot to get in there, but again, my partner did a good job of getting down on the ground &mdash; and then the rest is history.&rdquo;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Final Thought</h2>
<p dir="ltr">This incredible rescue is a powerful example of police officers' commitment to protecting and serving their community. It shows the courage to act in the face of uncertainty and a deep-seated instinct to help another human being. These are the moments that build community trust and remind us of the dedicated individuals who wear the badge.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Discover more stories about the human side of policing at <a href="http://welovepolice.org">welovepolice.org</a>.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr">1. Can police helicopters land anywhere in an emergency?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Generally, no. Police pilots adhere to strict aviation regulations and safety protocols, which include using designated airports or helipads. However, in an exigent, life-threatening circumstance, the pilot-in-command has the authority to deviate from standard procedures. A decision to land in an unprepared site is a calculated risk that weighs the danger of the maneuver against the certainty of harm to a person on the ground.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">2. Are police officers trained to give CPR?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Yes. CPR and basic first aid are fundamental components of police academy training across the country. Officers are frequently the first to arrive at the scene of an accident or medical emergency, and their ability to provide immediate life-saving care before paramedics arrive is a critical and often-used skill. Many officers also bring prior experience to the job, such as service as a military medic or volunteer EMT.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">3. How do police aviation units assist in rescues?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Police aviation units are a crucial resource with multiple capabilities. As an "eye in the sky," they provide an aerial perspective during pursuits or large-scale events, coordinate ground units, and use advanced technology like thermal imaging to search for missing persons or suspects. For direct rescues, they can perform hoist operations in inaccessible terrain, deliver specialized equipment, or rapidly deploy tactical teams.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">4. What does a tactical flight officer do?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">A tactical flight officer (TFO) is a sworn law enforcement officer who acts as the mission commander and systems operator in a police aircraft. While the pilot flies the helicopter, the TFO is responsible for operating the surveillance cameras, thermal imagers, and mapping systems. They also manage all communications with dispatchers and ground units, providing vital tactical information to coordinate an effective police response.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">5. How do quick decisions in policing save lives?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">In law enforcement, seconds can mean the difference between life and death. Officers are trained to rapidly assess complex, fast-evolving situations and make critical decisions under immense pressure. This ability, developed through rigorous training and on-the-job experience, allows them to take decisive action in emergencies, whether it's initiating a life-saving medical procedure, choosing a specific de-escalation tactic, or neutralizing a threat.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">6. How does police teamwork lead to successful outcomes?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Policing is fundamentally a team-based profession. A successful outcome rarely hinges on one officer's actions but on the seamless coordination between multiple people and units. This includes the 911 dispatcher calmly gathering information, patrol officers responding as a team, detectives investigating leads, and specialized units like K-9 or aviation providing support. Clear communication and mutual trust are the foundation of all safe and effective police work.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Sources:</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Primary Story Source: <a href="https://www.wbaltv.com/article/video-helicopter-land-field-officer-save-nearly-drowned-pool/65554433">BPD officers save man who nearly drowned at closed pool | WBAL-TV 11 Baltimore</a> (by Breanna Ross)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Additional Reporting: <a href="https://www.1011now.com/2025/08/01/officers-make-rare-helicopter-landing-rescue-drowning-man/">Officers make rare helicopter landing to rescue drowning man | 1011 Now</a> (via CNN Newsource)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Video and Image Source: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43xFzk2sfJU">NBC News</a></p>
</li>
</ul>

Acts of Heroism

When a life was on the line, Officers Andre Smith Jr. and Craig Hoover went above and beyond the call of duty with a daring air rescue.

BPD Officers Make Emergency Landing for Drowning CPR Rescue

Baltimore Officers' Daring Helicopter Rescue Saves a Man

<p dir="ltr">In an age where missing child rescue operations require both sophisticated investigative techniques and unwavering dedication, the Chandler Police Department's Human Exploitation and Trafficking (HEAT) Unit recently demonstrated how specialized training and community partnerships can transform a family's worst nightmare into a reunion story. The successful interstate child recovery of a 14-year-old Kansas girl not only reunited her with family but also removed a dangerous predator from the streets through expert police human trafficking investigation work.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Missing Child Becomes a Multi-State Investigation</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The case began when a 14-year-old girl from Kansas disappeared on July 20, 2025, sparking immediate concern from her family and local law enforcement. What started as a missing child rescue quickly evolved into a complex police human trafficking investigation as evidence pointed toward potential exploitation. The girl had been missing for nearly a month when crucial intelligence led investigators to Arizona, transforming the case into an interstate child recovery operation.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Working with Kansas law enforcement agencies, Chandler Police's specialized child exploitation unit police officers began tracking leads that eventually pointed to the Extended Stay America hotel in Chandler. This collaboration exemplifies how modern law enforcement agencies coordinate across state lines to protect vulnerable children. <a href="https://www.missingkids.org/ourwork/impact">According to the National Center for Missing &amp; Exploited Children, 91% of missing children reported in 2024 were successfully recovered</a>, with interstate cooperation playing a crucial role in positive outcomes.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">The HEAT Unit Springs Into Action</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Chandler Police Department's Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit represents the evolution of modern policing, where officers receive specialized training to handle the complexities of child exploitation cases. When intelligence led them to the Extended Stay America hotel, these dedicated officers knew they were not just conducting a routine arrest, they were potentially saving a young life from continued exploitation.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The hotel child trafficking rescue operation required careful planning and coordination. Officers approached the situation with both tactical precision and sensitivity to the victim's trauma. Their training in recognizing trafficking indicators and victim-centered response protocols proved essential in ensuring the girl's safety and well-being during the recovery process.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.stepstohope.org/blog/understanding-the-numbers-behind-human-trafficking-in-the-usa">Recent statistics show that 40% of human trafficking victims in 2024 were minors</a>, highlighting the critical importance of specialized units like Chandler's HEAT team. The unit's expertise in identifying and responding to exploitation cases directly contributes to protecting some of society's most vulnerable members.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Swift Justice and Professional Investigation</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The operation resulted in the arrest of 23-year-old Christian Leonardo Caal Mucu at his nearby workplace. The Guatemalan citizen now faces serious charges, including kidnapping, sexual misconduct with a minor, and sexual exploitation of a minor. The suspect was booked into Maricopa County Jail with a $50,000 cash bond, reflecting the severity of the charges and the flight risk assessment.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This child exploitation unit police success demonstrates how thorough investigation techniques and inter-agency cooperation lead to positive outcomes. The HEAT Unit's methodical approach ensured that evidence was properly collected and the case was built solidly for prosecution.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Building Trust Through Specialized Response</p>
<p dir="ltr">The successful missing child rescue reflects broader trends in law enforcement's approach to human trafficking cases. Chandler Police Department's investment in specialized training and dedicated units like HEAT demonstrates a commitment to protecting children that goes beyond traditional policing methods. These officers understand that trafficking victims often require specialized care and approaches that differ from other criminal investigations.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The interstate child recovery also showcases the power of law enforcement partnerships. When agencies share information, resources, and expertise across jurisdictional boundaries, children like this Kansas teenager have a much better chance of being found safely.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">A Commitment to Protection That Extends Beyond Borders</p>
<p dir="ltr">This case exemplifies how modern policing adapts to meet evolving threats against children. The officers involved in this police human trafficking investigation demonstrated that protecting vulnerable youth requires both technical expertise and genuine compassion. Their work not only reunited a family but also disrupted a trafficking operation that could have harmed other children.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The dedication shown by Chandler Police's HEAT Unit reminds us that behind every successful rescue operation are officers who understand that their work directly impacts young lives and families in crisis. When law enforcement agencies invest in specialized training and maintain focus on victim-centered approaches, they build the kind of community trust that makes everyone safer.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">To discover more stories of officers making a difference in their communities, visit <a href="https://welovepolice.org/stories">our stories page.</a></p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<h2 dir="ltr">1. What is a Human Exploitation and Trafficking (HEAT) Unit?</h2>
<p dir="ltr">HEAT Units are specialized law enforcement divisions trained specifically to investigate human trafficking cases. These officers receive advanced training in recognizing trafficking indicators, victim-centered interview techniques, and coordinating with federal agencies and victim service organizations to provide comprehensive response to trafficking cases.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">2. How do police agencies coordinate interstate child recovery cases?</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Interstate child recovery operations involve multiple law enforcement agencies sharing information through national databases like the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). Agencies use established protocols for cross-jurisdictional cooperation, often involving FBI coordination when cases cross state lines and specialized units like AMBER Alert systems for rapid response.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">3. What are the warning signs that a missing child case involves trafficking?</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Law enforcement looks for specific indicators including the child's age and vulnerability factors, circumstances of disappearance, suspected contact with online predators, evidence of grooming or coercion, and patterns suggesting commercial sexual exploitation or forced labor. Officers trained in trafficking recognition can identify these patterns early in investigations.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">4. How effective are specialized police units in rescuing trafficking victims?</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Specialized units show significantly higher success rates in trafficking cases. The National Center for Missing &amp; Exploited Children reports a 91% recovery rate for missing children cases, with specialized units contributing to better outcomes through targeted training, victim-centered approaches, and enhanced inter-agency cooperation capabilities.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">5. What happens to child trafficking victims after rescue?</h2>
<p dir="ltr">After rescue, child trafficking victims receive comprehensive support services including immediate medical care, trauma-informed counseling, safe housing placement, legal advocacy, and family reunification services when appropriate. Specialized victim service organizations work with law enforcement to ensure children receive long-term support for recovery and healing.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">6. How can parents protect their children from online predators?</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Parents should monitor their children's online activities, educate them about sharing personal information, use parental controls and privacy settings, maintain open communication about online interactions, and teach children to report uncomfortable or inappropriate contact immediately. The National Center for Missing &amp; Exploited Children provides extensive resources for online safety education.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">7. What role do hotels play in identifying potential trafficking situations?</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Hotels are increasingly trained to recognize trafficking indicators such as guests who appear controlled by others, cash payments for extended stays, excessive security measures, or guests who seem fearful or disoriented. Many hotel chains have implemented staff training programs and reporting protocols to assist law enforcement in identifying potential trafficking situations.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Sources:</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Primary Story Source: <a href="https://www.azfamily.com/video/2025/08/20/chandler-police-rescue-missing-kansas-girl-arrest-suspected-predator/">Chandler police rescue missing Kansas girl, arrest suspected predator | Arizona&rsquo;s Family</a></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Video Source: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1267290878271264">Chandler Police Department </a></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong id="docs-internal-guid-8eddef66-7fff-ec92-c605-5051e4528634">Additional Reporting:&nbsp;<a href="https://ktar.com/arizona-news/chandler-kidnapping-arrest/5740493/">Chandler police arrest man accused of kidnapping 14-year-old Kansas girl | </a><a href="http://ktar.com">Ktar.com</a> (by Jeff Vinton)</strong></p>
</li>
</ul>

Chandler's HEAT Unit rescued a missing 14-year-old from a hotel and arrested the suspected trafficking predator.

Missing Child Rescue: Chandler Police Save Kansas Teen

HEAT Unit Saves Teen from Human Trafficking

<h2 dir="ltr">When Every Second Counts: Dallas Officer's Swift Action Saves Toddler's Life</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Saturday afternoon at a Dallas gas station turned from routine to remarkable when a police officer became an unlikely hero. What started as a simple fuel stop transformed into a life-saving police response that perfectly demonstrates how training and compassion intersect in moments of crisis. Dallas VA Police Corporal Lee Higginbotham proved that being in the right place at the right time can make all the difference between tragedy and triumph.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Crowd's Desperate Call for Help</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The incident unfolded when Cpl. Higginbotham stopped for gas and noticed a commotion in the parking lot. A crowd had gathered, their voices urgent with calls for help. At the center of the emergency was a 2-year-old child who was visibly struggling to breathe, trapped in the terrifying grip of a choking episode. The toddler was growing "weaker by the second," creating a situation where every moment mattered.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This scenario represents one of approximately <a href="https://www.moultriehealth.org/news/children-and-food-choking-a-preventable-hazard/">12,000 children taken to hospital emergency rooms each year due to food choking incidents</a>. Children under 4 years old face particularly high risk, as <a href="https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/injuries-emergencies/Pages/Choking-Prevention.aspx">two-thirds of choking victims are infants younger than 1 year</a>, making this age group especially vulnerable to airway obstruction emergencies.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">The Heroic Police Officer Springs Into Action</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Cpl. Higginbotham immediately began performing the Heimlich maneuver on the distressed child. His training kicked in as he worked methodically to clear the obstruction from the toddler's airway. Police body camera footage captured the intense moments as the officer maintained his composure while battling against time.</p>
<p dir="ltr">"It felt like an eternity," Cpl. Higginbotham recalled those critical seconds. "I was panicking a little bit because I couldn't get the item out, so I did radio our Dallas VA dispatcher." His honest reflection reveals the human side of policing, even trained professionals feel the weight of responsibility when a young life hangs in the balance.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Heimlich maneuver, when performed correctly, has shown <a href="https://www.cprcertified.com/blog/everything-you-ve-ever-wondered-about-the-heimlich-maneuver">success rates between 70-86% according to American Heart Association reports</a>. Recent research indicates <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38972739/">approximately 46.6% success rate for abdominal thrusts in emergency medical services cases</a>, though success rates can be higher in children, reaching up to 60.2% for those aged 15 and under.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Police Officer Saves Child: The Moment Everything Changed</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The police body camera footage captured the exact moment when Cpl. Higginbotham's efforts paid off- the obstructing object was expelled from the child's airway. In that instant, a potential tragedy transformed into a triumph of quick thinking and proper training. The relief in the parking lot must have been palpable as the toddler could breathe freely once again.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Dallas Fire-Rescue paramedics arrived shortly after the successful intervention, providing additional medical evaluation to ensure the child was safe to return home with his family. This collaborative response between different emergency services demonstrates the seamless coordination that characterizes effective public safety operations.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Community Police Hero Reflects on Service</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Following the incident, Cpl. Higginbotham demonstrated the humility that defines true heroism. "I just did what anyone in my position would hope to do," he said. "I'm grateful I was in the right place at the right time and able to help." His modest response reflects a service-oriented mindset that extends beyond job requirements to genuine care for community welfare.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Dallas VA Police Chief Michael Dvorak praised his officer's actions, stating, "His quick thinking and compassion truly made all the difference. We're proud to have officers like him protecting not just our VA campus and the Veterans that we serve, but the whole community." This recognition highlights how police officers serve as first responders in various emergency situations, with <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30111214/">police making approximately 2.2% of all police-citizen interactions related to medical emergencies</a>.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Building Trust Through Compassionate Action</h2>
<p dir="ltr">This rescue exemplifies how police officers serve as guardians in their communities, ready to respond to any emergency that threatens public safety. Cpl. Higginbotham's life-saving police response demonstrates that law enforcement training extends far beyond traditional policing duties to encompass medical emergencies and community care. These moments of human connection and professional competence build the foundation of trust between police and the communities they serve.</p>
<p dir="ltr">When officers like Cpl. Higginbotham steps up in critical moments, they remind us that behind every badge is someone committed to protecting and serving others. Their willingness to act decisively in emergencies showcases the comprehensive nature of modern policing and the diverse skills officers bring to their communities every day.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">For more inspiring stories of officers making a difference, <a href="https://welovepolice.org/stories">explore our collection of police heroism stories.</a></p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr">1. What should you do if you see a child choking?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">If a child is choking and cannot cough, speak, or breathe, call 911 immediately and begin first aid. For children over 1 year, perform the Heimlich maneuver by standing behind them, placing your fist above the navel, and giving quick upward thrusts. For infants under 1 year, use back blows and chest thrusts instead of abdominal thrusts.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">2. How effective is the Heimlich maneuver in saving choking victims?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Research shows the Heimlich maneuver has a success rate of 70-86% when performed correctly on choking victims. The technique is particularly effective for complete airway obstructions and works by creating sudden upward pressure to expel foreign objects from the airway.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">3. Are police officers trained to handle medical emergencies?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Yes, most police officers receive basic medical training including CPR, first aid, and choking response techniques. Most of police departments now require this medical training, as officers often serve as first responders before paramedics arrive on scene.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">4. What are the most common choking hazards for young children?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Hot dogs are the leading cause of food-related choking in children 3 and under. Other high-risk items include whole grapes, nuts, hard candy, popcorn, chunks of meat or cheese, and small toys. Children under 4 are at highest risk due to their developing airways and chewing abilities.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">5. How quickly must choking victims receive help?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Time is critical in choking emergencies. When the brain goes without oxygen for more than 4 minutes, it can lead to permanent brain damage or death. This is why immediate intervention with techniques like the Heimlich maneuver is essential for survival.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">6. How can parents prevent choking incidents in young children?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Parents can prevent choking by supervising children while eating, cutting foods into small pieces, avoiding high-risk foods for children under 4, and learning basic first aid techniques. Items should be cut lengthwise and into small pieces, particularly grapes, hot dogs, and similar round foods.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">7. What happens after someone receives the Heimlich maneuver?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Even after successful removal of an airway obstruction, medical evaluation is recommended to check for potential complications or injuries from the choking episode or the maneuver itself. Emergency services typically transport patients to hospitals for observation and additional care.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Sources:</h2>
<p><strong id="docs-internal-guid-c50faf2a-7fff-b2fe-5e15-3090bfbac91a">Primary Story and Video Source: <a href="https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/national-international/video-shows-texas-police-officer-saving-child-from-choking/3892273/">&lsquo;In the right place at the right time': Video shows Texas police officer save choking child | NBCDFW <strong id="docs-internal-guid-ee0ce5d6-7fff-85bf-08e3-6376f79f60f6">(by Daniela Gonzalez)</strong></a></strong></p>

Watch body camera footage as a Texas police officer performs life-saving first aid on a 2-year-old child choking at a gas station.


Dallas VA Cop Performs Life-Saving Heimlich Maneuver

Dallas Officer's Quick Thinking Saves Choking Toddler

<p dir="ltr">During the devastating Hurricane Helene flooding in Tennessee, a Tennessee Highway Patrol officer was pulled from rising water, and then immediately helped carry an injured man to safety.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Trooper Hannah Smathers had just finished a crash report when she was dispatched to check flood-prone Spivey Mountain Road. While conditions seemed manageable at first, the Hurricane Helene flash flood waters began to rise rapidly.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;The creek had started rising and was quickly moving onto the roadway.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Smathers had just helped two pedestrians out of the area and offered aid to a stranded driver when she found herself surrounded by floodwater.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;There was no way forward and no way back. I called it in and waited.&rdquo;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Emergency Response Team Pulls Her to Safety</h2>
<p dir="ltr">A Hurricane Helene search and rescue team responded quickly. Smathers removed her vest and duty belt as they tossed her a rope and life jacket.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;I had to take off my vest, my belt&mdash;everything. They threw me a lifejacket and a rope. But there was no harness. If I let go of that rope, I was going with the water.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;The second I stepped away from my car, my feet were swept out from under me. I went underwater, but I held onto the rope. That was my only chance.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">According to Jason Pack, a retired FBI special agent and now communications director for the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Smathers didn&rsquo;t pause and went right back to work the moment she was safe.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;She radioed in, waited for help, and once she was safe, she went right back to work,&rdquo; Pack shared.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Back on Duty: Moments After Rescue</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Soaked and still covered in mud, Smathers quickly returned to duty. A nearby driver had broken his ankle. She helped carry him to safety.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;Once I got out, I saw another driver had broken his ankle, so I helped carry him to safety too.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">She remained on shift for 18 hours, despite the trauma and exhaustion.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;Because it's what we do.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;I know sometimes it sounds clich&eacute; when people say they just want to help others,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;But that&rsquo;s really what this job is about. Helping people. Making sure they&rsquo;re safe. That&rsquo;s all I was trying to do that day.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Honoring a Trooper&rsquo;s Dedication</h2>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;Trooper Smathers showed exactly what we expect from the Highway Patrol troopers &ndash; calm under pressure and a heart for service,&rdquo; said Col. Matt Perry.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;She didn&rsquo;t ask for attention. She just got the job done.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;She showed courage, humility, and heart,&rdquo; added Commissioner Jeff Long. &ldquo;Whether in a flood, a crash scene, or a routine patrol, our troopers are out there every day making Tennessee safer.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic flooding and claimed over 230 lives across six states, including Tennessee, North Carolina, and Florida.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Story That Speaks for Thousands</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Trooper Smathers&rsquo; actions remind us that life-saving actions aren&rsquo;t always about the spotlight; sometimes, they&rsquo;re about quiet resolve and relentless service.</p>
<p dir="ltr">If this story moved you, we invite you to read more<a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/category/acts-of-heroism"> Acts of Heroism</a> stories of officers around the country. Learn about the mission behind We Love Police, or head to the <a href="https://welovepolice.org/stories">Stories page</a> to discover more uplifting police stories.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">References</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">WATCH: Hero cop rescued from Hurricane Helene flash flood, immediately helps injured man - <a href="https://www.foxnews.com/us/watch-hero-cop-rescued-hurricane-helene-flash-flood-immediately-helps-injured-man-what-we-do">Fox News</a> (by Stepheny Price)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong id="docs-internal-guid-02d71cf5-7fff-71d8-8e88-cd1e6d562f8a">Image Source - <a href="https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2025/03/1200/675/hero-cop-rescued-from-hurricane-helene-flood-waters.png?ve=1&amp;tl=1">Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security</a> (via Fox News)</strong></p>
</li>
</ul>

After Hurricane Helene flooding, a Tennessee trooper was rescued, then helped save an injured man. A true story of courage and duty.

Hero Trooper Rescued from Floodwaters, Then Saves Injured Man

<p dir="ltr">A powerful example of rapid police response and neighborly teamwork played out in Saratoga Springs, New York, when a 22-year-old horse named Sly fell through the ice on a local pond. Bodycam footage from the Saratoga Springs Police Department shows the dramatic rescue, where officers and neighbors worked together to pull the 1,300-pound quarter horse from the freezing water.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The emergency police response began when Officer Kyle Clinton arrived first on the scene, joining Sly&rsquo;s owner, Ali Ernst, who had tried to keep Sly&rsquo;s head above water. Clinton and others&mdash;including more officers, neighbors, and family, worked in unison, calling out, &ldquo;One, two three, pull!&rdquo; and &ldquo;C&rsquo;mon, baby. We got ya!&rdquo; as they struggled to free the horse.</p>
<p dir="ltr">"I was losing the battle to keep him above water alone," Ernst said. "I threw all the rope in the hole and just started pulling it back in sheer hopes that I caught a hind leg, and I did, and we all just started to pull."</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Crisis Management in Law Enforcement and Community</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The successful icy pond rescue was only possible through swift action and crisis management in law enforcement. The emergency response police didn&rsquo;t hesitate, embodying the best of crisis management police principles by coordinating with neighbors and responding quickly to the emergency.</p>
<p dir="ltr">A group of nine, including officers from the Saratoga Springs Police and local community members, worked together as an emergency response team police unit. Their swift police response ensured that Sly, who was hypothermic, was freed within minutes and soon able to stand on his own.</p>
<p dir="ltr">After the animal rescue police succeeded, Sly was taken to Rood &amp; Riddle Equine Hospital for recovery, where his owner works as a technician. Thanks to the animal rescue New York community, Sly made a full recovery and returned home just days later.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Why These Animal Rescue Stories Matter</h2>
<p dir="ltr">This story is a reminder that heroes wear many uniforms. Whether it&rsquo;s New York police, animal control, or caring neighbors, responding to emergencies with teamwork and heart can save lives&mdash;animal and human alike.</p>
<p dir="ltr">To discover more uplifting stories of police, explore our<a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/category/acts-of-heroism"> Acts of Heroism</a> page. For more about the values guiding first responders, visit our <a href="https://welovepolice.org/education">Education page</a>.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">References</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">New York police save horse from icy pond in dramatic rescue - <a href="https://www.foxnews.com/us/see-it-new-york-police-save-horse-icy-pond-dramatic-rescue">Fox News </a>(by Louis Casiano)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Image Source - Saratoga Springs Police via AP</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Video Source - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOGilKvxOJE">WKYC Channel 3</a></p>
</li>
</ul>

A horse trapped in an icy New York pond is saved by police and neighbors, see how rapid emergency response made all the difference.

Police and Neighbors Rescue Horse From Icy Pond in New York

<h2 dir="ltr">Kindness Caught on Camera in Georgetown, KY</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Sometimes, the smallest gestures leave the biggest mark. That&rsquo;s exactly what happened in Georgetown, Kentucky, when a routine patrol turned into a moment that touched thousands. A 37-second video clip captured Georgetown PD Officer Rodney Johnson helping a woman in a wheelchair struggling to get home along Paris Pike.</p>
<p dir="ltr">He didn&rsquo;t know anyone was watching. But someone in the community recorded the moment, and this random act of kindness quickly turned into a viral police video shared widely across Facebook and local news.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Simple Act That Inspired Many</h2>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;It was just a normal routine patrol,&rdquo; Officer Johnson explained. &ldquo;I was driving on Paris Pike and I noticed traffic was backing.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">The cause? A woman in a wheelchair navigating a busy street alone.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;Without hesitation, Johnson parked his cruiser, turned on his lights and began wheeling her down the street,&rdquo; reported FOX 56.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Traffic paused as he gently pushed her to safety. Then he returned to his cruiser and continued his shift, never expecting the praise or attention that followed.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;It was just instinct. I mean, that&rsquo;s what we&rsquo;re here for, to help people,&rdquo; Johnson said. &ldquo;And when I pulled over, I got behind her and just pushed her home. And unbeknownst to me, some lady was recording and I had no idea.&rdquo;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Community Response: Uplifting a Police Story</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The footage was sent to the Georgetown KY Police Department, who proudly shared it on social media. The public&rsquo;s reaction was swift and heartfelt.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;Officer Johnson&rsquo;s actions are a perfect example of what it means to go above and beyond,&rdquo; the department wrote. &ldquo;Thank you to the community member who captured this moment, and thank you to all our officers who show kindness and dedication every day.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">The post was met with dozens of supportive comments:</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;God bless the people that believe in kindness.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;This is awesome. We do have some of the most compassionate officers and community members.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">This wasn&rsquo;t just an act of kindness&mdash;it was one of those<a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/category/acts-of-kindness"> everyday acts of kindness</a> that remind us who our officers truly are.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Humble Heroism Behind the Badge</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Johnson later reflected on the moment with humility and grace.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;We&rsquo;re out here doing a job, you know, trying to help people as much as we can, and then you know, to have that much love and respect to come from the public saying that. It&rsquo;s very humbling,&rdquo; said Johnson.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;That&rsquo;s what we do. We serve and protect the community. We help people that need to be helped and sometimes when people can&rsquo;t help themselves, we step in and we provide that help that they need.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">He lives by the motto:</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;Do the right thing even when no one is watching.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">That mindset turned this moment into a powerful<a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/category/inspirational-stories"> acts of kindness story</a>, reminding us how impactful simple acts of kindness can be when done with heart.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Why These Stories Matter</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Not all acts of kindness make the news. But this one&mdash;shared by a neighbor who simply wanted to spotlight the good&mdash;reminds us that<a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/category/community-involvement"> compassion still thrives in uniform</a>. Officer Johnson&rsquo;s action embodies what it means to be part of a community, not just to patrol it.</p>
<p dir="ltr">These deeds of kindness, these small acts of kindness shown by officers every day, deserve to be seen, shared, and celebrated.</p>
<p dir="ltr">If you or a loved one is a police officer, know that your work matters. And if you ever need someone to talk to, We Love Police is here with trusted support options and connection to chaplain services.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Want to See More?</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Visit our<a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/"> </a><a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/stories">Stories Page</a> to discover more stories of police courage and compassion. Have a story to share? <a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/contact">Contact us</a>, we&rsquo;d love to hear how officers are making a difference in your community.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">References</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://fox56news.com/news/local/georgetown-police-officer-caught-in-a-random-act-of-kindness/">Georgetown police officer helps woman in wheelchair during patrol</a> - FOX 56 (by Dustin Massengill)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://www.lex18.com/news/georgetown-police-officers-act-of-kindness-captured-on-video">Georgetown officer&rsquo;s good deed goes viral</a> - LEX 18</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Image Source - FOX 56&nbsp;</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Video Source -&nbsp; LEX 18</p>
</li>
</ul>

Acts of Kindness

A Georgetown KY police officer's act of kindness went viral after he helped a woman in a wheelchair. It’s a story worth watching and sharing.

Officer’s Kindness in Georgetown Goes Viral and Warms Hearts

<p dir="ltr">A man experiencing a mental health crisis on Seattle&rsquo;s Ship Canal Bridge was safely brought to help last Thursday, thanks to the calm response from the Seattle Police, their Hostage Negotiation Team, and the Washington State Patrol.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Officers arrived around 3:45 p.m. after reports came in of a man in distress. Several lanes on I-5 were shut down while officers worked to de-escalate the situation safely.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">An Hour of Patience, Compassion, and Listening</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Sergeant David Sullivan, a longtime member of the Seattle Police Department, stood near the edge of the bridge with the man, trying to build trust during the tense hour.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;This is a very professional person; he is at the VP level in his organization,&rdquo; Sergeant Sullivan said. &ldquo;He&rsquo;s just suffering from a long-term behavioral health condition that he has hidden because of the stigma. It&rsquo;s just really sad.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">As they talked, Sgt. Sullivan told the man about treatment options, including the new King County Crisis Center in Kirkland, which offers inpatient crisis stabilization services.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;This model is the future,&rdquo; Sullivan said. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s a lot more respectful of behavioral conditions than sending someone to the ER. They are focused on behavioral health. This model has worked in other parts of the country.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Sgt. Sullivan, who has already referred two people to the center that week, remained focused on giving the man options and hope.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Safe Resolution, Warm Blanket, Real Connection</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Eventually, the man climbed back over the guardrail. At that point, Sergeant James Kim, who oversees SPD&rsquo;s Hostage Negotiation Team, stepped in.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;After he climbed over [the guardrail], I gave him a blanket to get warm, and we just talked,&rdquo; Kim said. &ldquo;We talked about our kids; this was somebody I could talk to. It&rsquo;s hard.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Kim later added that everyone on the scene, from Washington State Patrol to Seattle Police and the Washington Department of Transportation, treated the man with compassion and care.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In an email to SPD, WSP Captain Ron Mead wrote:</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;It goes without saying that a life no doubt was saved tonight by the great work of everyone involved, and my particular thanks to Trooper Jaramillo and SPD Sgt. Sullivan and Kim. Your efforts made a difference, and I&rsquo;m hopeful that [the man in crisis] gets the help he desperately needs. The public we all serve are better because of the great partnerships between the WSP and SPD leading to great outcomes like this and exceptional public servants like each of you!&rdquo;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Career Defined by Service</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Though Sgt. Sullivan is humble about his actions, his dedication has not gone unnoticed. He will receive the Medal of Honor from the Seattle Police Foundation later this month.</p>
<p dir="ltr">That recognition follows his work in November 2024, when he chased down and apprehended a man suspected of stabbing 10 people in Seattle&rsquo;s Chinatown-International District over two days. His quick action in that case may have prevented further harm and was widely praised.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Real People Behind the Uniform</h2>
<p dir="ltr">This recent rescue on the Ship Canal Bridge wasn&rsquo;t about tactics or force, it was about patience, trust, and knowing when to simply listen. It&rsquo;s the kind of outcome that shows what police can do when they&rsquo;re trained and supported in responding to mental health situations with care.</p>
<p dir="ltr">If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call 988 to reach the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 24/7, free, and confidential.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">References</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://www.kiro7.com/unavailable-location/">https://www.kiro7.com/</a></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://www.yahoo.com/news/police-rescue-man-crisis-ship-201609700.html?guccounter=1&amp;guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&amp;guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAM4SFasBzxksXNPgO-W8jQJ60J6VzuCFX7qwCR_qH_SNh3-fXA12Tag5gacwcuM93iPnJxFy7NwcTqWY1cQ_adSdReuvL2P9_wMsbsgnu91i5K4lOz_xrL9MIf4NQhxDIFf3Ek-cwT33RpJbHxrSbhI9nX51ECKpiIxsdNCZjucv">https://www.yahoo.com/news/police-rescue-man-crisis-ship-201609700.html?guccounter=1&amp;guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&amp;guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAM4SFasBzxksXNPgO-W8jQJ60J6VzuCFX7qwCR_qH_SNh3-fXA12Tag5gacwcuM93iPnJxFy7NwcTqWY1cQ_adSdReuvL2P9_wMsbsgnu91i5K4lOz_xrL9MIf4NQhxDIFf3Ek-cwT33RpJbHxrSbhI9nX51ECKpiIxsdNCZjucv</a>&nbsp;</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://spdblotter.seattle.gov/2025/03/14/multi-agency-effort-rescues-man-from-ship-canal-bridge-thursday/">https://spdblotter.seattle.gov/2025/03/14/multi-agency-effort-rescues-man-from-ship-canal-bridge-thursday/</a></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://www.bigcountrynewsconnection.com/local/seattle-police-and-washington-state-patrol-talk-man-down-from-ship-canal-bridge/article_57e9d436-0125-11f0-8653-ef425bcd077d.html">https://www.bigcountrynewsconnection.com/local/seattle-police-and-washington-state-patrol-talk-man-down-from-ship-canal-bridge/article_57e9d436-0125-11f0-8653-ef425bcd077d.html</a></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong id="docs-internal-guid-05374cf8-7fff-af30-553c-13199b503782">Image Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://spdblotter.seattle.gov/2025/03/14/multi-agency-effort-rescues-man-from-ship-canal-bridge-thursday/">https://spdblotter.seattle.gov/2025/03/14/multi-agency-effort-rescues-man-from-ship-canal-bridge-thursday/</a></strong></p>
</li>
</ul>

A peaceful outcome on the Ship Canal Bridge, led by calm officers and a multi-agency response from SPD and WSP.

Seattle Police Help Rescue Man in Crisis on I-5 Bridge

<p dir="ltr">An 86-year-old man, reported missing from his home in Plainville, Massachusetts, was found safe Thursday night after a quick and coordinated search and rescue operation. The Plainville Police Department worked with several local and regional partners to find the man before the cold weather became dangerous.</p>
<p dir="ltr">He had last been seen around 7:00 p.m., and was reported missing at 8:20 p.m. With temperatures around 36 degrees and concern for his safety growing, officers didn&rsquo;t hesitate.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Search Teams, Drones, and K-9 Units Deployed</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Police quickly requested help from the Metropolitan Law Enforcement Council (METRO-LEC), a network of 46 departments that supports cities and towns like Plainville MA in situations like this. Multiple teams were sent in, including:</p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Drone units for aerial surveillance</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">K-9 teams to help on the ground</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">A search and rescue crew</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Tactical bicycle officers and investigative units</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr">The Massachusetts State Police Department responded as well, including the MSP Air Wing. The Plainville Fire Department was also on scene to provide medical support.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This joint effort shows how law enforcement agencies working together can move fast and effectively during emergencies.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Missing Man Located in 17 Minutes</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Three drones launched and began scanning over two miles of wooded terrain near power lines in Plainville, Massachusetts. At 9:47 p.m., just 17 minutes after drone deployment, the missing old man was found alive in the woods.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Search-and-rescue teams and paramedics reached him quickly and gave a medical evaluation before taking him to Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, where he was reported to be in stable condition.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Chief Commends Fast and Focused Response</h2>
<p dir="ltr">In a statement after the operation, Plainville Police Chief James Floyd said:</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;Tonight&rsquo;s successful rescue is a testament to the power of collaboration, advanced technology, and the unwavering dedication of our law enforcement and emergency response teams. The ability to deploy specialized units so quickly made all the difference in reuniting this individual with his loved ones. We sincerely thank the public for their support and commend all personnel involved for a job well done.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">This case joins the many examples of missing persons who were found thanks to organized, timely law enforcement response.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Quiet but Life-Saving Police Work</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The Plainville Police Department, Massachusetts State Police Dept, METRO-LEC, and Plainville Fire Department showed how vital inter-agency teamwork is. It&rsquo;s not every day that stories about missing persons who were found alive make the headlines, but when they do, they remind us of the quiet, important work happening behind the scenes.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This rescue didn&rsquo;t just depend on technology, it relied on trained officers, solid communication, and departments working side-by-side. It&rsquo;s one of those moments that highlights what&rsquo;s possible when law enforcement agencies work together with a clear goal.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">References</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://turnto10.com/news/local/plainville-police-rescue-an-86-year-old-man-reported-missing">Plainville police rescue an 86-year-old man reported missing</a> - WJAR (by NBC 10 News)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://www.police1.com/drones/drones-aid-in-rescue-of-86-year-old-man-locating-him-in-17-minutes">Drones aid in rescue of 86-year-old man, locating him in 17 minutes</a> - Police1 (by Heather Morrison)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://www.newportdispatch.com/2025/03/14/plainville-police-rescue-missing-86-year-old-man-in-woods/">Plainville police rescue missing 86-year-old man in woods</a> - Newport Dispatch (by Daniel Duric)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://hoodline.com/2025/03/missing-86-year-old-massachusetts-man-rescued-by-drone-technology-in-17-minutes/">Missing 86-Year-Old Massachusetts Man Rescued by Drone Technology in 17 Minutes</a> - Hoodline (by Mike Chen)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong id="docs-internal-guid-861f66cf-7fff-5617-b696-6a8633a6e439"><a href="https://lexipol.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/2c7987a/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1024x577+0+0/resize/1000x563!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk1-prod-lexipol.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fda%2F4f%2Fdeeab9084a20aa436b81aff94a94%2F476063980-1069513565218678-2757614279964809862-n.jpg">Image source</a> </strong>- Police1</p>
</li>
</ul>

Fast response and drone tech helped Plainville MA police locate a missing old man found in the woods on a cold night.

Police Rescue Missing Elderly Man Using Drone in Plainville

<p id="NWFHV2Z5H5DRVFP3Z5ANDOXOCE" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">TARRANT, Alabama - Helen Johnson stared in amazement at the piles of food accumulating in her small Tarrant apartment on Wednesday.</p>
<div id="inarticle-1"></div>
<p id="WQHKN5GLVBBSRBS3L34H6FES3Y" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">"The last time I saw my house this full, I was 12-years-old and staying with my grandmother,'' said the 47-year-old mother and grandmother. "I've been crying all day."</p>
<p class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">On Wednesday, Tarrant police delivered two truckloads of groceries to the woman, who on Saturday was&nbsp;<a href="http://www.al.com/news/birmingham/index.ssf/2014/12/im_not_a_good_thief_says_woman.html">caught stealing five eggs from the nearby Dollar General</a>. Instead of arresting Johnson, Tarrant Police Officer William Stacy bought her a carton of eggs and sent her home with the promise to never shoplift again.</p>
<p id="7IO4EMAWJFFM3KXTO5YUCVPN2I" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">That in itself, Johnson said, was a blessing. But those blessings now seem to have taken on a life of their own. Tarrant police said they've received calls from across the United States and world since hearing of Johnson's plight. People have offered food, money and clothing.</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_7IO4EMAWJFFM3KXTO5YUCVPN2I" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-4"></div>
<p id="BSONJ5HXTBA6JHY5NJ5UITMQ44" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">It's been so overwhelming, said Tarrant Police Chief Dennis Reno, he had to bring in a second police dispatcher to handle the volume of calls. Police officials today also set up a fund at People's First Federal Credit Union on Ford Avenue in Tarrant to benefit the Johnson family.</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_BSONJ5HXTBA6JHY5NJ5UITMQ44" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-5"></div>
<p id="ZW7Z2EZRVVEUZMZR6G4DPGMTNQ" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">"It's growing and growing and growing,'' Reno said. " A guy called me from New York and just broke down. He said for two months he's been angry with police, and he said this has totally changed his mind."</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_ZW7Z2EZRVVEUZMZR6G4DPGMTNQ" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-6"></div>
<p id="POTZULHNXNDTBPRCPXCAOXZLUM" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">A food bank from Memphis is set to arrive in Tarrant this evening. "This woman's getting plenty of food,'' the chief said. "She shouldn't be hungry for a while."</p>
<p id="QENO564ECVHCDPWGFHHLHKW2P4" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">What a difference a week makes. Johnson's two daughters, a niece and two grandchildren, ages 1 and 3, live with her in their Tarrant home. The kids' mother gets a welfare check - $120 a month - but that check was lost in the mail. Johnson herself gets a disability check, which is set to come this week.</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_QENO564ECVHCDPWGFHHLHKW2P4" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-8"></div>
<p id="A3AXQOUGJRHD3L4RNY4DD3OR6E" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">By Saturday, the family had gone two days without food. Johnson went to Dollar General on Pinson Valley Parkway with $1.25 and thought that would be enough to buy a carton of eggs. When she realized she was 50 cents plus tax short, she stuffed five eggs in her pocket out of desperation.</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_A3AXQOUGJRHD3L4RNY4DD3OR6E" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-9"></div>
<p id="EQHBUYDK3FE2HNYPNE52BIASBE" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">She didn't get far.&nbsp; "Of course when I put them in my jacket pocket they broke,'' Johnson said in an earlier interview. "I'm not a good thief at all."</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_EQHBUYDK3FE2HNYPNE52BIASBE" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-10"></div>
<p id="FYZ2HLUNWFFNLJHFILA7USZHEU" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">A store worker stopped Johnson and asked her if she had taken the eggs. She said she did, and they said they had already called the police.</p>
<p id="YM5JQREFZFASFG2AWADQ4NWCPE" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">By the time she got to the door, Tarrant police Officer William Stacy was there, and told her to stay put. The officer said he'd already talked to Dollar General officials and they said they weren't going to press charges.</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_YM5JQREFZFASFG2AWADQ4NWCPE" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-12"></div>
<p id="P6YTQGY53JD55CEBBPQWLTRN5A" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Johnson didn't know that, and said she was waiting for him to bring out the handcuffs. Instead, he went into the store and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.al.com/news/birmingham/index.ssf/2014/12/police_officer_buys_eggs_for_w.html#incart_river">came back out with a carton of eggs</a>. "She started crying, she got very emotional and was very apologetic,'' Stacy said. "She tried to give me the money she had on her, $1.25."</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_P6YTQGY53JD55CEBBPQWLTRN5A" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-13"></div>
<p id="GPNUBPNSOZC4DI3PLQCAH7V3HA" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Johnson said she was stunned. "I was like, 'Oh my God, thank you Jesus for this man,''' she said. "He is my hero."</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_GPNUBPNSOZC4DI3PLQCAH7V3HA" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-14" class="middleParagraph"></div>
<p id="7OMU2UDWHZE77OOBRBZ57UKLCQ" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Stacy said he can remember times growing up when his mother had trouble finding ways to feed him and his sister. He had been on a call to Johnson's house once before, and had gotten a glimpse of the living conditions. The furnishings are sparse, and the family sleeps on mattresses on the floor.</p>
<p id="TPUPJ4QUDVECNJ5FWG3CWDO6X4" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">The story she told me Saturday matched up with what I had seen when I was there,'' he said. "I felt like it was the right thing to do. I didn't want to pass judgment on her."</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_TPUPJ4QUDVECNJ5FWG3CWDO6X4" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-16"></div>
<p id="63NO7IQQXJHXRMIH5ME2Q45VX4" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">She asked how she could repay him, and he told her to not shoplift again. "Sometimes the best route is to not arrest,'' Stacy said. "I hope she won't do it again. I pray she doesn't, and I don't think she will."</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_63NO7IQQXJHXRMIH5ME2Q45VX4" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-17"></div>
<p id="724HQXW2LFBCXANG275NMC476Y" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Johnson asked Stacy if she could hug him, and he said yes. Unbeknownst to both of them, a man named Robert "Dollar" Tripp filmed the scene on his cell phone and later posted it on his Facebook with the hashtag "feelgoodstoryoftheday."</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_724HQXW2LFBCXANG275NMC476Y" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-18"></div>
<p id="R4UL63ED6BBUBKVKV3XP2PKEPM" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">The story went viral. On Tuesday, Tarrant police showed up at her home. "I was shook and so scared," she said. "I thought it was about the eggs. My grandbaby said, 'Are you going to jail?' and I said I hoped not."</p>
<p id="QQMMMNY5CZAHBG5VJOX6PLBQV4" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Instead, Tarrant police took Johnson to headquarters, where they signed her up for the annual Tarrant Toy Drive, and also are helping to coordinate the offers of food and clothing also pouring in, said Tarrant police Sgt. Larry Rice.</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_QQMMMNY5CZAHBG5VJOX6PLBQV4" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-20"></div>
<p id="6SLEQLUFCBCRPONHBXGL4MIXTI" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">On Wednesday, Stacy and Officer Jay Jenkins took two loads of food to Johnson's apartment. She couldn't stop crying, and she couldn't stop hugging Stacy. "I just busted out and started hollering,'' Johnson said of all the food delivered to her home. "I was yelling so loud. I would have been a good cheerleader."</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_6SLEQLUFCBCRPONHBXGL4MIXTI" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-21"></div>
<p id="MZWRTA7L3RHQ7JCPGDA5BRWUEQ" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">With help from a nearby church, Johnson spent much of Wednesday reorganizing her kitchen cabinets to make room for all the food. The family, who by Tuesday was down to one slice of bread, had their pick of what to eat.</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_MZWRTA7L3RHQ7JCPGDA5BRWUEQ" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-22"></div>
<p id="TVYH2IYA3BHBJO75FTIO7OK7YM" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">So what did they eat? "Cereal,'' she said. "That's our favorite."</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_TVYH2IYA3BHBJO75FTIO7OK7YM" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-23"></div>
<p id="ZUZWYLI6RZAHRGXTOGIXU6G5QM" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Her grandchildren were also happy to see the officers at their apartment. "You back?" said 3-year-old Tamarose, as she grabbed various cans of food to show the family.</p>
<p id="RL55BRSNXJHATKXST4JS7X63CQ" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Asked what she would do if someone else in need asked her for a slice of bread, she said, "I would give them the whole loaf. And then I would give them Officer Stacy's number."</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_RL55BRSNXJHATKXST4JS7X63CQ" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-25"></div>
<p id="U7UTPZWOTBFELL2J7MISL3EWRI" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Johnson said her life is forever changed because of the actions of Stacy and the Tarrant Police Department. "My heart,'' she said, "is wide open right now."</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_U7UTPZWOTBFELL2J7MISL3EWRI" class="ad-observer"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="inarticle-26"></div>
<p id="UNBE74G4FNGKFOSKT7G35GVIR4" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Anyone who wants to make a donation to Johnson can do so at People's First Federal Credit Union. Checks should be made payable to the Tarrant Police Charity Fund c/o the Johnson Family. Checks can be mailed to the bank at 1140 Ford Avenue, Tarrant, Alabama 35217.</p>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_R4UL63ED6BBUBKVKV3XP2PKEPM" class="ad-observer ad ad--in-article" data-google-query-id="CPH5q7W-9YIDFQxBnQkd8RMCsQ"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="InContent_Center_Background">
<div class="InContent_Center_Padding">
<div id="InContent_Center_FYZ2HLUNWFFNLJHFILA7USZHEU" class="ad-observer ad ad--in-article" data-google-query-id="CNCev66-9YIDFW1jnQkd19kDbQ"></div>
</div>
</div>

Tarrant Alabama Police Officer, William Stacy, buys eggs for woman caught stealing them. The blessings just kept flowing from there!

Related News

Trending News

Hero Trooper Rescued from Floodwaters, Then Saves Injured Man

Police and Neighbors Rescue Horse From Icy Pond in New York

Officer’s Kindness in Georgetown Goes Viral and Warms Hearts

Seattle Police Help Rescue Man in Crisis on I-5 Bridge

Police Rescue Missing Elderly Man Using Drone in Plainville

Woman Stealing Eggs Is BLESSED By Police Officer

|