Crime & Safety

Citizens Honored for Saving Life at Mall

When shopper suffered a heart attack, three men sprang into action

In December, a man shopping at SouthPark Mall with his two teenage daughters suddenly collapsed, slamming his head on the floor.

Patrick McMillan, a detective with the Akron Police Department, was at the mall shopping. He and Anthony Anthous, a security officer at the mall, rushed to the man's aid.

Realizing the man was in cardiac arrest, McMillan started CPR while Anthous radioed for an automated external defibrillator.

David Blazer, also a mall security guard, rushed over with the AED.

By the time Strongsville paramedics arrived a few minutes later, the man had a heartbeat and was semi-conscious.

The medics later confirmed the man had been in full cardiac arrest.

McMillan, Anthous and Blazer were recognized Monday by Strongsville Police, receiving the department's Citizen Award for 2012. 

"The quick thinking and action of these citizens averted the loss of life," Deputy Chief Tony Zacharyasz said at the award presentation.

The man is expected to make a full recovery, he said.



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