On September 30, 2022, at approximately 4:11 P.M., Trooper Joseph Santos was traveling on Country Club Road near Brassie Lane. Trooper Santos observed a person laying on a curb next to a motorcycle. Trooper Santos activated his emergency equipment, notified dispatch of what he observed, and responded to the subject immediately. Initially, the driver was breathing but not completely responsive. Trooper Santos requested Polk County Fire Rescue to respond since this was just over the Polk County/Osceola County line.
Trooper Santos continued to speak to the driver, reminding him to breathe and keep his eyes open. Trooper Santos then observed the driver was no longer responsive and began to turn purple. Trooper Santos believed the helmet was restricting his airway and carefully removed his helmet. The driver was still not breathing, so Trooper Santos retrieved his AED. Trooper Santos began CPR and chest compressions and the driver began breathing moments later. Thereafter, Fire Rescue responded and transported the driver to the hospital. The driver (a 42-year-old male) has made a full recovery and has been released from the hospital. Trooper Santos took necessary actions to preserve life while carrying out his duties as a Florida Highway Patrol Trooper in an emergency situation.