Remarkable Ski Mountain Rescue by Fall River Police Officers
On January 28, off-duty Fall River police officers Guy Furtado and Garrett Nelson embarked on their final run of the day, navigating a challenging black diamond trail towards the lodge to meet friends.
Unexpectedly, they found themselves in a pivotal moment, coming to the aid of a distressed individual, leading to a heartwarming reunion later in the week.
Furtado, a seasoned 10-year veteran of the Fall River Police Department, reminisced about the ideal skiing conditions that day.
The officers recounted encountering 45-year-old William Polzun Jr. and his son, Nathan Polzun, from Manchester, Connecticut, facing a dire situation on the slopes.
Despite initial assumptions of a minor mishap, Furtado and Nelson swiftly realized the gravity of the circumstance when they discovered Nathan unresponsive, lacking a pulse due to a known heart condition.
Nelson promptly contacted emergency services while coordinating the mountain rescue team’s response to the precise location.
Meanwhile, Furtado initiated life-saving chest compressions and guided Polzun in administering breaths to Nathan.
The mountain rescue team’s timely arrival, along with their adept use of an automated external defibrillator, played a crucial role in stabilizing Nathan for evacuation.
The seamless coordination and expertise displayed during the rescue operation left a lasting impression on Nelson, highlighting the exceptional dedication of the responders involved.
Subsequently, a serendipitous connection facilitated the reunion between the officers and the Polzun family, underscoring the profound impact of their actions.
The heartening encounter culminated in expressions of gratitude from Nathan and his father, affirming the officers’ pivotal role in saving Nathan’s life and fostering hope for his recovery.
Reflecting on the unexpected turn of events, Furtado and Nelson emphasized the routine yet vital nature of their duties, underscoring the unassuming heroism displayed by law enforcement officers daily.
Fall River Police Chief Paul Gauvin commended the officers’ exemplary conduct, citing their consistent dedication to serving the community and exemplifying the department’s commitment to lifesaving interventions.
The heartening saga of the ski mountain rescue serves as a poignant reminder of the unwavering commitment and valor exhibited by law enforcement officers in safeguarding lives and fostering connections that transcend boundaries.