Lacey Marine Owner Awarded For Lifesaving Actions

LACEY, NJ — A local business owner has been awarded by Lacey police for helping to save the life of a customer.

On April 3, Kurt Kruger was shopping at Lacey Marine when a medical episode made his heart stop, causing him to stop breathing and fall to the floor, police said.

An owner of the shop, Dan Tholan, "immediately recognized the need for assistance," police said. Tholan quickly called 911, gave them the information they needed and stayed by Kruger's side.

Thankfully, Officer Lee was on a special detail and happened to be driving past the store when the call went out. He immediately responded and began lifesaving measures, police said.

Ray Benedetti of the Lacey Township First Aid Squad arrived quickly after. Shortly after that, Officer Alan Abrecht and Officer Daniel Ricciardella arrived, along with Lacey Township First Aid members Sean Mullaney and Matthew Danielle. Together, with RWJ Barnabas paramedics, the group worked to save Kruger's life.

Now, twenty-four days after that, police and first aid squad members met Kruger and his family at Lacey Marine, police said.

"We are thankful that Kurt is recovering well and grateful that we were able to meet Kurt and his amazing family," police said.

Additionally, Tholan was presented with a Lacey Township Police Department Citizen Recognition Award.

"If Dan did not take immediate action and remain calm while assisting, this meeting would not not have been possible," Lacey police said. "Thank you Dan!"