Kids & Family

Deputies who Saved the Life of a Security Guard at CityWalk Honored

Without Sergeants Shawn Cohen's and Steven Freiwirth's quick actions, teamwork and lifesaving first aid, the victim would not have survived, officials said.

Two deputies were honored today for saving the life of a security guard on New Year's Eve at Universal CityWalk.

In all, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department formally recognized 21 of their personnel for their heroic actions.

Sheriff John L. Scott presented each recipient with the department’s Lifesaving Award, which is given to employees or reserve deputies whose actions result in the preservation of a human life which would have otherwise been lost without the employee’s direct involvement, according to a department press release.

Here's the narrative on what happened:

On Dec. 31, 2013, Sergeants Shawn Cohen and Steven Freiwirth, assigned to West Hollywood Station, were working a New Year’s Eve event at Universal City Walk. 

Cohen was monitoring radio traffic and observing his surroundings when he saw a security guard suddenly fall to the ground. Cohen rushed to his aid and assessed the unresponsive security guard, determined he was not breathing and had no pulse. Cohen radioed for assistance and immediately began CPR. 

Freiwirth arrived and assisted in providing first aid. Cohen performed chest compressions and Freiwirth ensured the security guard’s airway was open. The victim responded to their CPR efforts and took several deep breaths, however, when Cohen ceased the chest compressions, Freiwirth checked for pulse and breathing, but could not detect either. 

When medical personnel arrived with an automated external defibrillator, Cohen opened the victim’s shirt and stepped back to allow medical personnel to perform further lifesaving measures. 

The victim was transported to a hospital where he was in ICU, on a ventilator and in an induced coma for 10 days. The victim was eventually released from the hospital. He is currently at home and continuing therapy.

Without Sergeants Cohen's and Freiwirth’s quick actions, teamwork and lifesaving first aid, the victim would not have survived. 

 


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