Chattanooga, TN – During the IRONMAN 70.3 competition in May, a medical emergency near the finish line prompted a rapid, coordinated response that ultimately saved an athlete’s life.
Officers from the Chattanooga Police Department, including Deputy Chief Toby Hewitt, Assistant Chiefs Danny Jones and Rusty Morrison, Sergeants Dennis Pedigo and David Cowan, and Officer Bruce Wilson, along with Tennessee Highway Patrol Sgt. Terry Parker, played critical roles. They worked alongside Tennessee Aquarium staff, Hamilton County EMS, and Erlanger Event Medicine to clear a path through the crowd and provide urgent care.
Officer Wilson notably responded on foot from several blocks away after hearing the radio call and was instrumental in the initial life-saving efforts.
The Chattanooga Police Department recently held a recognition ceremony to honor the teamwork and swift action that made the difference.
Officials encourage the public to download the PulsePoint Respond app to receive CPR alerts and the PulsePoint AED app to register automated external defibrillators (AEDs), enhancing community readiness for cardiac emergencies.
That day in May, every second counted — and a life was saved.