Trooper’s Bravery and Quick Thinking Saved Life of Motorist Under Cardiac Arrest

ELMHURST, IL – Today, Illinois State Police Trooper Jason Bradley was honored for his bravery and lifesaving efforts during a Hero’s Breakfast at Elmhurst Memorial Hospital.   Trooper Bradley was reunited with Mr. Ken Nagel, who publically thanked Trooper Bradley for saving his life.  Also in attendance were members of the Nagel family, ISP Director Hiram Grau, District 15 command staff and Elmhurst Memorial Hospital officials.

On October 8, 2012, Trooper Bradley was on routine patrol on I-294 when he received a call from dispatch regarding a male motorist needing immediate medical assistance along I-294.  Acting without hesitation, Trooper Bradley parked his vehicle on the northbound side of I-294, retrieved his Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and jumped over the concrete median barrier, crossing several lanes of traffic to rescue the unconscious motorist.

Trooper Bradley checked for vital signs and attached the AED pads to the motorist.   Trooper Bradley administered the AED and also performed CPR until the Berkley Fire Department was able to arrive on scene.  The motorist was subsequently taken to Elmhurst hospital where he made a full recovery.

“Trooper Bradley’s heroic actions are exemplary of his training, bravery and quick thinking abilities,” said Illinois State Police Director Hiram Grau.  “This is just one example of how the men and women of the Illinois State Police risk their lives to save others on a daily basis, and demonstrates their strong commitment to keeping our communities and roads safe,” he added.

Mrs. Ellen M. Nagel of Berwyn, Illinois praised Trooper Bradley in a letter sent to District 15 Commander, Captain Joseph Perez, for the trooper’s understanding that every second counts when confronted with life or death situations.

“I would like to thank him for his calm, efficient, and knowledgeable action.  He risked his life for my husband.  He was reassuring to me at the site.  Then he showed compassion over and above by coming that evening to the hospital to check on my husband, Ken’s condition.  I am so grateful that he was guided to be the officer that came to our aid,” Mrs. Nagel said in the letter.

Mrs. Nagel also thanked Captain Perez for training and educating ISP officers with CPR response and procedures.  Elmhurst Memorial Hospital presented Trooper Jason Bradley with a certificate of appreciation and honor.