NOVA Police Officers’ Swift Action Helps Save a Life

December 17, 2024 / Faculty/Staff Highlights

On December 4, NOVA Police Dispatch received a call about a medical emergency on the Annandale Campus. Officers were immediately dispatched to provide assistance; upon their arrival, Officer Mark Achacoso and Officer Anthony Crawn determined that an individual was in need of immediate life-saving intervention. The officers initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) — in which all NOVA police officers are highly trained — and also deployed an automated external defibrillator (AED). Achacoso and Crawn continued CPR and the use of the AED in the critical moments before EMS arrived and took over care. The officers then transitioned seamlessly from providing medical support to ensuring the safety of the surrounding environment. They quickly secured the scene, ensuring that bystanders were calm and supported.

Medical professionals at the hospital commended the officers for their quick, decisive action and their expert use of CPR and the AED, acknowledging that these interventions played a direct role in saving the patient’s life.

In recognition of their extraordinary actions and dedication to duty, Officers Achacoso and Crawn will be honored with the department’s Lifesaving Award in the coming weeks. Please join us in congratulating these officers for their exceptional service and professionalism in the face of an emergency.

The officers, along with President Kress and VP Ferrari, line up for a photo in the Brault Building. From left to right, President Anne M. Kress; Officer Mark Achacoso; Officer Anthony Crawn; Interim Chief of Police Tony Ong; and Vice President of Finance and Administration John Ferrari.
Pictured above, from left to right: NOVA President Anne M. Kress; Officer Mark Achacoso; Officer Anthony Crawn; Interim Chief of Police Tony Ong; and VP of Finance and Administration John Ferrari.

 

Submitted by:
Lt. Tony Ong, Acting Chief of Police, TOng2@nvcc.edu