Kent Police Heroes Save Life During Rush Hour Crash
Three off-duty Kent Police call handlers sprang into action to save a life after a serious crash on a busy dual carriageway.
Quick-Thinking Trio Act Amid Chaos
Lucy, Abi, and Amber, friends and colleagues from Kent Police’s Force Control Room (FCR), were off the clock when they spotted a serious road traffic collision on Hoath Way, Gillingham, just before 5pm on Tuesday 4 January 2022.
An elderly pedestrian in her 70s had been knocked unconscious by a car. Members of the public had already stopped, with one performing CPR and others trying to control traffic on the hectic road.
Life-Saving Skills Put to Work
Lucy, trained in first aid by St John’s Ambulance and a former lifeguard, took over CPR. She kept going until paramedics from the South East Coast Ambulance Service arrived, then stayed to support until the patient was safely taken to hospital.
While Lucy worked on the victim, Abi and Amber protected the scene. The woman lay in a dangerous live lane, so the pair used a large scarf to shield her from onlookers and keep the area secure, preserving her dignity at a distressing time.
Patient Makes Gradual Recovery
- The woman was rushed to a London hospital with life-threatening injuries.
- She is now conscious and steadily improving.
Police Praise Brave Off-Duty Trio
“Lucy, Abi and Amber were not only brave, but they were also professional and compassionate. They have absolutely reflected the Kent Police values in doing the right thing and putting vulnerable people at the heart of what we do,” said Chief Inspector Cheesman.
“They managed a traumatic and potentially dangerous incident without a second thought, protected a life and made difficult decisions. I would like to thank them and commend them for what they have done. I am incredibly proud of them, a sentiment which, no doubt, is reflected by all at Kent Police.”
