Health & Fitness

Malden Police Officer Helps Save Teen's Life At Track Meet

The student collapsed and was unresponsive after completing a 200-meter event.

MALDEN, MA — A police officer was recognized by his peers for helping save the life of a teenager while off-duty.

Officer George Lopez was attending his daughter’s track meet last week between Archbishop Williams and St. Mary’s at Manning Field in Lynn when an Archbishop Williams athlete collapsed suddenly after completing the 200-meter race.

Lopez acted quickly and examined the student and found that the student was not breathing and had no pulse. He then directed a bystander to call 911 and asked for an AED device to be brought to the scene. In the meantime, Lopez began administering CPR.

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“When the first advised shock did not restore a cardiac rhythm, he continued lifesaving efforts without pause,” the department said in a statement. “Following the AED’s guidance, he administered a second shock, which successfully restored the boy’s heartbeat.”

The boy was transported to Mass General Hospital where he is reportedly stable and recovering.

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Chief Glenn Cronin said he was contacted by Lynn Police Chief Christopher Reddy to express thanks for the swift response of one of his officers.

“Officer Lopez’s conduct exemplifies the highest standards of our profession and serves as a powerful reminder that our duty to protect and preserve life extends beyond our shifts and jurisdictional boundaries,” Cronin said. “In recognition of his outstanding service and lifesaving actions, Officer Lopez will be awarded a well-deserved day off.”

Lopez first joined the Malden Police Department in 2013.

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