Grandfather Thanks Old Westbury, NY Police for Saving His Life
A breakfast at an Old Westbury, NY diner turned into a miracle when local police used CPR and AEDs to save a man from sudden cardiac arrest.
by Admin
Apr 15, 2026
A typical morning breakfast at the Old Westbury Diner quickly turned into a life-or-death emergency for 75-year-old grandfather Phillip Amico. While sharing a meal, Amico suddenly went into cardiac arrest, a critical medical event that can prove fatal in just minutes. Quick intervention was essential, and luckily, the response from local law enforcement was immediate.
Immediate First Responder Action
Officers from the Old Westbury Police Department in Nassau County, New York, rushed to the scene following a 911 call reporting an unresponsive person who was not breathing. Demonstrating critical law enforcement medical training, Officer John Kassebaum was the first to arrive and immediately assessed the gravity of the situation. Finding Amico had no pulse, Officer Kassebaum gently moved him to the floor to begin administering urgent CPR. His quick thinking and application of correct emergency CPR steps laid the groundwork for survival.
Technology Meets Expert Police Training
As backup officers arrived, the department's strategic investment in emergency equipment paid off. Officer Michael Avelin and Detective Michael Brown quickly utilized an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on Amico. Old Westbury Police Chief Stuart Cameron emphasized that all department patrol cars are equipped with these life-saving devices, ensuring they are readily available during critical incidents. Following multiple shocks with the AED and continuous chest compressions, the officers successfully restored Amico's pulse, a truly remarkable cardiac arrest survival outcome.
Community Celebration of Positive Police News
The responding officers’ police fast response and expert application of police first aid did more than just stabilize a medical patient; they saved a cherished family member. Three weeks later, an emotional Phillip Amico, a grandfather of eight, was able to personally thank the three officers who saved his life. The Nassau County police department honored Officer Kassebaum, Officer Avelin, and Detective Brown with official life-saving commendations for their exceptional performance. Officer Kassebaum shared that this powerful, positive outcome is "kind of what we all signed up to do." This incident stands as a profound example of positive police news and effective community policing success, highlighting the deep connection and public safety that Nassau County residents rely on.
This story beautifully illustrates the vital role law enforcement plays in public safety, showcasing not only their bravery and expertise but also their deep compassion and dedication to serving the community. Hearing a grandfather express his heartfelt thanks after being given a second chance at life is a poignant reminder of why these officers do the work they do.
We invite you to continue exploring inspirational law enforcement stories and strongly encourage you to share this story to help honor the dedication of the Old Westbury Police.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What training do police officers receive for medical emergencies?
Most police officers in the United States undergo extensive law enforcement medical training that covers basic first aid, CPR certification, and how to operate an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). This preparation ensures they are equipped as first responders.
2. Do many police departments equip their patrol vehicles with AEDs?
Increasingly, many police departments across the country prioritize equipping their patrol vehicles with Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) because officers are often the very first emergency personnel to arrive on a medical scene, making rapid defibrillation possible.
3. How important is initial CPR during a cardiac arrest?
Immediate administration of correct emergency CPR steps is absolutely vital. It helps maintain the flow of oxygenated blood to critical organs, which significantly increases the chances of survival and can reduce potential long-term damage before advanced medical help arrives.
4. What is the success rate for police-administered defibrillation?
While overall survival rates for cardiac arrest can vary based on numerous factors, quick access to defibrillation by a trained first responder, such as a police officer, dramatically improves the likelihood of a successful resuscitation.