During a recent government meeting, a commendation ceremony highlighted the heroic actions of a citizen and local law enforcement officers who collaborated to save a life. Cedric Fruit was honored for his quick response on September 14, 2024, when he heard a woman screaming outside his home. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, he grabbed a dose of Narcan and rushed to assist a man in a car who was not breathing.
Upon arriving at the scene, Sergeant Jennifer Skoskneider, along with Officers David Blythe and Sarah Blake, took charge of the situation. They began administering CPR while Mr. Fruit provided a second dose of Narcan. Officer Blythe later administered a third dose, which ultimately helped detect a weak pulse as emergency medical services arrived.
The emergency room physician later confirmed that the effective chest compressions played a crucial role in saving the man's life. The meeting concluded with the presentation of a citizen award to Mr. Fruit and life-saving awards to the officers involved, recognizing their swift and coordinated efforts in a critical moment. The ceremony underscored the importance of community involvement and the vital role of first responders in emergency situations.