We're very proud - police officers praised for saving life of toddler in cardiac arrest
Two quick thinking police officers are being praised after saving the life of a two year-old girl who had stopped breathing and gone into cardiac arrest.
An emergency call was put out to help save the unconscious toddler.
Paramedics were on the way by the the call was also picked up by medically trained firearms officers PCs Jonathan Deschacht and Rachael Yalcin who were on routine patrol and were just two minutes away from the house.
A Durham Constabulary spokesperson said: “They grabbed their medical kit bag from the back of the armed response vehicle and rushed into the address to find the little girl in cardiac arrest.
“The pair immediately worked together carrying out CPR and applying the defibrillator.
“Thankfully, within minutes the little girl regained consciousness and started breathing on her own.
“Paramedics arrived at the house in the Durham City area to take over her care.
“PCs Deschacht and Yalcin then provided a blue light escort for the ambulance in order for the girl to get medical support in hospital as quickly as possible.”
In October (2025) Sunderland based charity the Red Sky Foundation donated £185,000 to ensure all Durham Constabulary police response vehicles were fitted with defibrillators.
Chief Inspector Sarah Hindmarsh, of Durham Constabulary, said: “When an incident like this happens, especially involving a child, it can be a very emotional situation for all involved.
“Ideally first on scene would be ambulance, however we are often the closest to respond. These officers remained calm under pressure, and ultimately their quick-thinking actions have saved this young girl’s life.
“My specialist teams are trained to an advanced level of first aid, and we hope they never to have to put their training into use, but as demonstrated if a situation requires them to, they will always be ready to help.
“I am very proud of the actions of the officers, it must have been a terrifying experience for the little girl and her family, but we are all so pleased the little girl is now recovering.”
The little girl is now at home and is said to be recovering well.