As Overdose Awareness Day approaches, a Red Hook police officer saves a life, again

RED HOOK, NY – A Red Hook police officer uses Narcan and saves the life of a 21-year-old female.

Sergeant Hildenbrand responded to a call for an unresponsive female who was not breathing due to an overdose. Sgt. Hildenbrand arrived before EMS and was told by a family member that they already gave the female a dose of Narcan, but it did not work.

Sergeant Hildenbrand quickly administered a second dose, but that did not work either. He quickly was able to administer one last dose of Narcan, and this caused to the female to begin breathing.

The female was transported to the hospital for treatment.

Sergeant Hildenbrand said to the Poughkeepsie Journal, “I happened to be there on time, and she gets a second shot at life. Hopefully she can get the help that she might need, and if she needs it from me, my door is always open.

International Overdose Awareness Day is a global event held on August 31 each year and aims to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death. It also acknowledges the grief felt by families and friends remembering those who have died or had a permanent injury as a result of drug overdose.

Those who need help are asked to call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

But wait, there’s more.

This isn’t the first time Sergeant Hildenbrand has saved a life.

Back in September of 2014, Sergeant Hildrenbrand was on patrol and noticed a speeding vehicle. Sergeant Hildenbrand conducted a traffic stop and the car immediately stopped. Suddenly, the driver jumped out of the car carrying his lifeless child.

Sergeant Hildenbrand put the father and son into the back of his patrol car and rushed towards the hospital. On the way, Sergeant Hildrenbrand felt for a pulse, but did not feel one. He immediately began instructing the father on CPR techniques.

The panic from the father was making it difficult for him to follow directions.

Sergeant Hildenbrand was able to reach into the backseat and began doing two-finger chest compressions, all while driving to the hospital.

Once at the hospital the staff was able to open the boys airway and he started crying. Test results later determined the boy suffered a seizure.

The boys mother, Amanda Small, said, “I just can’t thank the officer and his father enough for saving his life.”

Sergeant Hildenbrand said, “It’s an emotional thing. It takes a lot out of you. I’m glad his parents will be able to see him again and play with him.”

Thank you for your continued service Sergeant Hildenbrand. You are a true hero.