A Florida Highway Patrol trooper is being called a hero after resuscitating a motorcyclist using CPR and an automated external defibrillator (AED).
According to a tweet from FHP Orlando, Trooper Joseph Santos performed CPR on the motorcyclist in Kissimmee. Santos was in the right place at the right time when he encountered the unresponsive 42-year-old man lying on the sidewalk next to his overturned motorcycle. It was immediately apparent that the man was not breathing and was turning purple.
The trooper first removed the cyclist’s helmet, thinking it was restricting his breathing. When that was unsuccessful, he ran to his cruiser to retrieve his AED and immediately began performing CPR.
The scary moment was documented on Santos’ police cruiser video camera.
Thankfully, the cyclist began breathing. Polk County Fire Rescue arrived shortly after to provide support. Police said the driver was transported to a local hospital and later released.
“We appreciate Trooper Santos and his saving efforts!” the department wrote.