Sheriff

Florida Deputy Helps Save 4-Year-Old Girl From Pool

An off-duty sheriff's deputy and a bystander saved the life of a little girl who was celebrating her fourth birthday at a swimming pool in Panama City Beach.

Bay County Sheriff's deputy Jeff Haire was with his family at an aquatic center Sunday when he heard a man calling for help. The man held the girl as he climbed out of the swimming pool.

A sheriff's news release says the man found the child at the bottom of the pool. Haire began CPR with help from lifeguards and finally felt a faint pulse.

Haire says he ran with the girl, later identified as Davieonna Howard, toward emergency vehicles. She was taken to the hospital, where she's in good condition.

"Cpl. Haire’s response is an excellent example of the level of training at the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and the commitment to serve our deputies have to this community," Sheriff Tommy Ford said.

The police department posted a photo of the little girl and Cpl. Haire from the 4-year-old's hospital room.

“I am proud of Cpl. Haire and his quick response to prevent what could have been a tragedy. And very happy for this family who will remember that day as a one for miracles and not heartbreak," said Sheriff Ford.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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