Ridge Meadows RCMP are crediting the fast actions of one of their officers and members of the public with saving a man's life.
On Monday, Jan. 6, at about 12:30 p.m., Const. Dave Letwin was at the Pitt Meadows Recreation Centre when he heard a commotion in the multi-court area of the facility.
Arriving there, Letwin was told by members of the public that a man was not breathing and was believed to have no pulse. The members of the public and an off-duty Surrey Police Service officer were already attempting life saving measures.
Letwin requested assistance from additional on-duty police officers, Pitt Meadows Fire, as well as Emergency Health Services to attend the scene.
He immediately began CPR and used an automated external defibrillator (AED). With these life-saving measures, the man's breathing and a pulse returned.
Pitt Meadows Fire, and paramedics attended and took over the life-saving measures, and stabilized the man for transport to the hospital, where he is currently recovering.
It was a combined effort by all parties involved which resulted in a positive outcome for this man, say police.
"I am incredibly proud of Const. Letwin’s quick thinking and willingness to jump into action, which truly demonstrates his commitment to our community," said Staff Sgt. Michelle Luca. "His ability to provide life-saving measures was crucial in ensuring the positive outcome for this local community member."
An incident such as this speaks to the importance of having functioning AED’s in your place of business, said police, commending the recreation centre staff for their actions and for their dedication to public safety.
The Ridge Meadows RCMP would like to also use this incident as a reminder for members of the public to consider First Aid/CPR training, said police spokesperson Cst. Tisha Parsons, as you never know when these skills can have an impact on the outcome of a situation that could have been tragic.
If you were a witness to this incident, and require support from our victim services unit, please contact the Pitt Meadows Community Policing Office directly at 604-465-2402 and refer to file 2025-344.
