Citizens were recognized for efforts in saving a man using CPR. The five citizens received commendations from the Abbotsford Police Board for their roles in attempting to save the life of a man who jumped off the Mission Bridge.

Heroic effort to save a life

Roger Williams, Jessie Garrison, Martin Hanle, Heather Hanle and Ron Thomas were acknowledged during the board’s monthly meeting.

The first four were in vehicles when they saw a man park his car mid-span on the bridge, get out and jump into the rapid-moving, frigid waters below.

Williams, a member of Mission Search and Rescue and Garrison, a registered nurse pulled over, got out of their vehicle, looked over the bridge railing and saw that the victim was still moving in the water. The Hanles also got out of their vehicle and saw the man below.

All four got back into their vehicles and drove to the Mission Harbour Boat Launch to find a boat to use for a rescue. Thomas, who was the marine operator, quickly took Williams, Garrison and Martin Hanle out on the Fraser River to find the victim while Heather Hanle waited on the dock.

Upon finding the victim, Williams and Martin pulled him from the water and Garrison initiated CPR. They arrived back at the boat launch where Heather helped Garrison with CPR until the arrival of the paramedics. Sadly, the man did not survive.

Timely action

The prompt action and immediate delivery of life-saving techniques such as CPR can save a life. It is recommended to enroll in a first aid course today to be prepared to help others during emergencies.

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