Local hero recognized for rapid response that saved victim's life

From nixle.com - On June 20th, 2017, Carmel Police Officer Tony Lovitt was on patrol when he received notification from Hamilton County Communications Center (Dispatcher Jill Jones) of an unconscious male in the area of Bayhill Drive and Sugar Cay Ct. Officer Lovitt immediately responded. Upon arriving on the scene, he observed a Good Samaritan (Bill Schlies) performing CPR on the unconscious male who was later identified as Jeff Utzinger.

Left to right: Jeff Utzinger, Bill Schiles & Off. Tony Lovitt

Officer Lovitt immediately retrieved his AED and attached the instrument to Jeff. Jeff then received one shock from the AED. Sgt. Brady Myers also arrived on the scene and assisted with chest compressions until Carmel Fire Department arrived for the transport.

We would like to commend Officer Lovitt for his quick and effective response and Sgt. Myers for his assistance with chest compressions. Their actions resulted in Jeff Utzinger being revived on the scene and transported to the hospital for further care. Officer Lovitt maintained contact with a family member and sought updates on Jeff’s well-being.

Jeff and his family invited Officer Lovitt to meet one morning. Jeff Utzinger was very emotional and thankful for Officer Lovitt's response and integral part in saving his life. Jeff Utzinger is married with three young children and as a result of these first responders they will have their father for many more years.

Left to right: Off. Tony Lovitt, Good Samaritan-Bill Schiles, Survivor-Jeff Utzinger, Dispatcher-Alayna Fenimore, Dispatcher-Jill Jones and Jeff’s son (George Utzinger-10 years old).

On Tuesday, February 13th, Officer Lovitt, Bill Schlies and survivor Jeff Utzinger were recognized during the IU Health North and “Bolt for the Heart 5K Run/Walk” AED presentation at the State Fairgrounds Indiana Farm Bureau building.