Pregnant Fort Myers police officer recognized for rescuing submerged driver

Published: Updated:

FORT MYERS, Fla. – The Florida Police Chiefs Association (FPCA) recognized a Fort Myers police officer Tuesday as a recipient of the FPCA Lifesaving Award.

Officer Cassie McHale of the Fort Myers Police Department was honored for an exceptional lifesaving act she performed earlier this year.

“Every day, our officers protect their community – often at great personal risk,” said Coconut Creek Police Chief Butch Arenal, President of the FPCA. “To be a law enforcement officer is to put others first, and this award recipient is the epitome of selfless protection and service.”

The Bayshore Fire & Rescue and Lee County first responders were dispatched to rescue a driver trapped in a submerged vehicle off the highway in February.

Officer McHale was traveling in her personal vehicle and saw the first responders trying to reach the driver.

Despite being eight months pregnant, Officer McHale stopped, entered the water, helped remove the driver and began providing CPR and advanced life support care.

“Officer McHale embraces the philosophy service before self with concern, compassion and care,” said Fort Myers Police Department Chief Derrick Diggs. “I am proud of how Officer McHale represents the Fort Myers Police Department and the entire law enforcement community.”

The Lifesaving Award, sponsored by the Harris Foundation, recognizes law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to serve and protect their communities.

The FPCA accepts nominations from member agencies online at: https://fpca.com/lifesaving-award/. The award nomination and selection process occurs twice annually.

Copyright ©2024 Fort Myers Broadcasting. All rights reserved.

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without prior written consent.