A quick response by two NOPD Eighth District officers is believed to have helped save the life of a man who had overdosed on heroine and was in critical condition in the 900 block of St. Louis Street on November 24, 2016.
At about 6:32 p.m., NOPD Officer William Knowles was working the French Quarter Task Force when he was flagged down by an unknown pedestrian in regards to a male not responding. The subject, described as a 23-year-old white male, was found lying on his back on the sidewalk in the area with his eyes partially open and not breathing. Officer Knowles opened the subject's eyes and observed his pupils showed no reaction to light. He then checked the subject for a pulse and was unable to locate one.
Officer Trevor Abney arrived on scene shortly after Officer Knowles to assist. Officer Knowles then began to apply chest compressions on the subject while Officer Abney monitored for a pulse. Officer Knowles continued the chest compressions until the subject regained a pulse and began struggling to breathe. The officers monitored the subject’s pulse and breathing until EMS personnel arrived on scene. EMS personnel then took control of the scene and were able to revive the subject completely on scene. The subject was transported to a nearby medical center for further treatment.
Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the subject had overdosed on heroin. He received treatment and was released from the hospital later that evening.
It is believed that the efforts of Officers Knowles and Abney were instrumental in saving the life of the subject.