Surveillance video shows off-duty NYPD officer's dramatic rescue of unconscious driver

BROOKLYN (WABC) -- An off-duty NYPD officer is being credited with preventing a potential tragedy after rescuing a driver who suffered a medical episode behind the wheel in Brooklyn.

The incident happened Sunday morning near 60th Street and Eighth Avenue in Sunset Park. Officials said the driver lost consciousness while operating a vehicle, but an off-duty police officer who was nearby intervened.

Surveillance video captured the dramatic rescue. The footage shows the officer running to the vehicle, putting it in park, removing the driver and beginning CPR.

Councilwoman Susan Zhuang praised the officer's actions, saying the rescue likely prevented injuries to others in the area.

"He actually saved more than just a driver's life. He saved the pedestrians life. The babies walking in the street, the the grandparents walking the street. He saved everyone's life," Zhuang said.

The off-duty officer first observed the vehicle run a red light. As the car continued, the officer noticed the driver appeared to be unconscious and took action.

Witnesses initially misunderstood what was happening, believing the officer might have been attempting to rob the vehicle. However, that perception changed when he began performing CPR on the driver.

Tony Ko, of the New York State Fraternal Alliance Organization, said a surveillance camera he installed in the area captured the incident. Ko said his goal is to expand camera coverage in the neighborhood to help protect the community.

"I also want to express my gratitude to the brave individual who had the courage to help someone they didn't know," Ko said.

Zhuang also called for recognition of the officer's actions.

"We have to honor our off duty police officers. Even they are not on the job. They're still helping people," Zhuang said.

The officer is expected to be recognized at a private City Council meeting later this month. He has remained humble as he told Eyewitness News he was simply doing his job.

Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News

Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.