Quick-Thinking Cops Save Man’s Life After Stroke Near Gloucester Pub
What looked like a routine job turned into a life-saving mission for three Gloucester police officers. Thanks to their sharp instincts, a stroke victim is now recovering – and he’s publicly thanking the heroes who saved him.
Suspicious Taxi Driver Sparks Emergency Response
PC Emma-Jayne Smith was patrolling Eastgate Street in Gloucester back in January when a concerned member of the public flagged her down. They’d spotted a taxi driver leaving a pub and feared he might be drunk behind the wheel.
Smith quickly stopped Abdullah Bhaiyat from starting his car and called for backup from PC Jess Hopton and PCSO Matt Addinall, who were nearby.
Not Drunk, But in Serious Trouble
Bhaiyat was unsteady on his feet and slurring his words. Officers breathalysed him, but the results came back clear. The Muslim man insisted he hadn’t been drinking.
It was then the officers realised something was seriously wrong – Bhaiyat was having a stroke. Without hesitation, they shoved him in the back of their patrol car and raced to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital.
Saved Just in Time: 12 Minutes to A&E
The whole rescue took just 12 minutes. Any delay could have meant catastrophic health consequences for Bhaiyat, who was oblivious to his condition at the time.
Now recovering at home, Bhaiyat recently met with his lifesavers to say a heartfelt thank you. “We are eternally grateful for the help that the officers gave me,” he said. “I’m well aware that, if it hadn’t been for their fast reactions, I may not have been here today. My family and I cannot thank them enough.”
Officers Awarded for Heroic Actions
Superintendent Carl Bourne praised the trio’s quick thinking and compassion, awarding them a Local Policing Area Award. “Their care and compassion in the face of a fast-moving medical emergency was a credit to them and their uniform,” he said.
