Two 911 emergency operators are being recognized by the Chatham-Kent Police Service for their compassionate efforts, which helped to save the life of a suicidal man.
Emergency Communication Operators (ECO) John Maunula and Victoria Labadie have received a letter of recognition from the deputy chief after convincing a distraught man to surrender to police, rather than take his own life.
According to CK police, Labadie received a call from an emotional and suicidal man on August 13, who said he had been battling cancer for several years, which was causing him constant excruciating pain. He told the ECO that he had a rifle in his lap and a suicide letter on the table.
“While being professional and compassionate ECO Labadie quickly obtained the pertinent information from the male party and was able to keep him on the phone for over five minutes until he hung up to carry out his plan,” said Deputy Chief Kirk Earley in the letter of recognition.
Maunula then attempted to call the man back several times and was able to get him on the phone to continue the conversation while officers responded to the scene.
The ECO was then able to convince the man to put the firearm down and surrender to police officers in a safe manner. He was eventually taken for medical care.
“If not for the professionalism and compassion of ECO Labadie and Maunula, it is likely the outcome may have had a tragic end,” said Earley. “This incident highlights the value of good and timely communication, great teamwork, and a significant amount of empathy.”
Labadie and Maunula were presented with the letter of recognition during a Police Services Board meeting on Wednesday.
