Police Officer Saves Baby’s Life on Light Rail Platform
A police officer’s timely intervention saved a baby’s life on a light rail platform in Mesa, Arizona. The incident, which occurred on July 23, showcased the vital role of Officer Shaquille Perez in rescuing the infant who had stopped breathing.
Officer Perez was on duty dealing with a situation involving a sleeping passenger who was uncooperative on the light rail. Amidst this, a distressed mother caught his attention with her loud cries for help, as reported by the Mesa Police Department.
“I heard screaming, so I walk over, and when I peep out this way from the other side where the train’s at, mom comes running up to me screaming for help,” Perez recounted.
Perez’s body-worn camera footage captured the crucial moments. He swiftly took the unresponsive baby, turned the child over, and started patting the baby’s back in an effort to stimulate breathing.
In a surprising turn, a retired paramedic approached Perez, offering his assistance. Together, they worked diligently to revive the baby.
“He took the baby from my arms, and we put him in the backseat of the squad car under some A/C, and the baby was breathing,” Perez described the tense moments.
The video captured the sound of the baby’s strong cry as the retired paramedic comforted the child. The Mesa Police Department highlighted Perez’s impeccable timing in their bodycam video caption, emphasizing that he was “in the right place at the right time.”
Reflecting on the experience, Officer Perez shared, “It’s an amazing feeling to know I was able to intervene and help potentially save that baby’s life.”
Paramedics swiftly arrived on the scene and assessed the child’s condition. Thankfully, the baby is now out of danger and in safe hands.
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the essential role law enforcement officers play in safeguarding lives, even in unexpected and critical situations.