TOMS RIVER, NJ—In a remarkable display of quick action and teamwork, four local heroes were commended for their life-saving efforts at an LA Fitness on Hooper Avenue. On Sunday, August 13, police and emergency personnel responded to a call at approximately 3:50 PM regarding a man suffering a cardiac arrest. Off-duty EMTs Dylan Tortorelli and Josh Menack, who were exercising at the gym, swiftly began performing CPR on the victim.
Off-duty Toms River police officers Alex Van Lew and Charlie Grainger were also present and assisted by using an automated external defibrillator (AED) to revive the patient. The man regained consciousness and began breathing independently shortly after the intervention. He was transported by Silverton First Aid and RWJ Paramedics to Brick Hospital for further treatment and has since returned home.
Dylan Tortorelli, who had just been sworn in as a full-time police officer with the Neptune Township Police Department the following day, is also an EMT with Manchester Township. Josh Menack is involved with the Point Pleasant Beach First Aid Squad and serves as a lifeguard and EMT for the Seaside Heights Beach Patrol.
The 200 Club of Ocean County has recognized the quick-thinking and heroic actions of these individuals, who worked together to save a life under critical circumstances. Their commendable efforts highlight the importance of emergency preparedness and community service.
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