Police Officer Honored For Helping Save Man Struck By Forklift

HAUPPAUGE, NY - A Suffolk Police officer was recently honored for helping to save a man who was accidentally struck by a forklift while working in Brentwood last month.

Legislators Susan A. Berland (D-Dix Hills) and Samuel Gonzalez (D-Brentwood) presented a proclamation to Suffolk Police Officer Kevin Bell of the 3rd Precinct in recognition of his heroism in the line of duty.

"Officer Bell’s immediate action demonstrates that he is well trained and possesses the confidence to act decisively in an emergency," Gonzalez said. "Suffolk County is very fortunate to have Police Officers like Kevin Bell serving the community."

On June 25, Gabriel Leveille, 66, of Westbury was operating a mechanical pallet jack at Broadridge on 300 Executive Drive when he was accidentally struck by a forklift.

When Bell arrived on the scene, he found Leveille laying on the floor with an injury to his upper leg. He had lost a lot of blood.

Bell then retrieved his department-issued tourniquet and tied it to his upper right thigh.

As a result of Bell’s rapid response, Leveille is expected to make a full recovery.

"Police Officer Kevin Bell’s quick response and lifesaving actions are the epitome of what our Police Department provides for Suffolk County," Berland said. "I was proud to honor his heroism and thank him for his dedicated service to our community."