Home / Disasters and Accidents / Miracle at Parkrun: Officer's Quick Action Saves Life
Miracle at Parkrun: Officer's Quick Action Saves Life
6 Aug
Summary
- Off-duty officer recognized cardiac arrest signs through labored breathing.
- Commendations awarded for saving a runner's life during parkrun.
- A specialized first aid course was organized for runners post-incident.
A 74-year-old man, David Painter, has expressed profound gratitude to an off-duty police officer, PC Vicky Howick, for saving his life during a parkrun event. Mr. Painter collapsed from cardiac arrest shortly after commencing the run at Thoulstone Park.
While other runners initially placed Mr. Painter in the recovery position, PC Howick identified his labored breathing as a sign of cardiac arrest. She promptly called for a defibrillator and began administering CPR. Concurrently, another officer, Nick Slade, ensured Mr. Painter's wife, Jackie, could reach him at the hospital.
Jackie Painter recounted her fear upon seeing officers at her door, but praised Officer Slade's "amazing" support in driving her to the hospital, ensuring she had Wi-Fi, and helping her connect with medical staff.
Mr. Painter spent approximately one month in the hospital, undergoing heart surgery and receiving a cardioverter defibrillator. He is currently advised not to drive or run for six months but plans to volunteer at parkruns in the interim.
Both officers were commended by Assistant Chief Constable Deb Smith for their actions. Officer Howick, a police officer for two decades, met with Mr. Painter and other volunteers, describing the reunion as emotional and expressing joy at seeing him recover well.
In response to the incident, the local parkrun has organized a first aid course for 50 runners, equipping them with essential emergency response skills.
