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Police said officers from the city’s Emergency Services Unit saw James Murphy lying in the arms of his father inside the Coyne Park basketball courts around 12:45 p.m., authorities said.
Officers Gerald Wilkins and Edward Vitullo performed CPR and gave the man oxygen after he stopped breathing, police said.
In the meantime, Sgt. Todd Mendelson of the Emergency Services Unit administered chest compressions, authorities said.
The officers then deployed an automated external defibrillator, or AED, and shocked the victim twice. Responders from Empress Ambulance arrived at the park a short time later and continued first aid.
Police said numerous cruisers maintained traffic posts and Lt. James McAuley assisted in coordinating multiple units to escort the ambulance carrying Murphy to Lawrence Hospital.
Once there, the victim was stabilized and later transported to the Westchester Medical Center, where he has made a recovery.
Police Commissioner Charles Gardner praised the officers for their quick thinking.
“Due to the quick response of these highly trained Officers from E.S.U., a resident’s life was saved due to their actions,” Gardner said in a statement. “I commend all the Officers involved in this incident for their dedication and professionalism, which they continue to display on a daily basis on the streets of our city.”
Mayor Mike Spano also hailed the actions of the officers.
“Without the swift life support services provided by our E.S.U. first responders, a young Yonkers resident would have lost his life,” he said. “I applaud our Yonkers finest for their professional and efficient lifesaving actions. Sunday's incident illustrates that our E.S.U.'s emergency training and capabilities are a great resource to our city residents. We send our thoughts and prayers to the victim for a healthy and speedy recovery.”
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