Knoxville Mayor Madeline Rogero and Police Chief Eve Thomas presented the Lifesaving Award to Knoxville Police Department Officer Derrick White for his response to a person choking on food.  Officer White has been with the department since July 2011.  

On April 25, 2018, Officer White was working in a secondary employment position on E. 5th Avenue when he observed a cameraman with a production company on location, bending over and making gagging noises.  The cameraman was unable to speak or communicate with others and could only produce violent choking sounds.  As other people in the room were still attempting to comprehend what was happening, Officer White immediately recognized that the victim was choking due to some type of blockage in his throat.  At this point, Officer White approached the victim and performed the Heimlich maneuver.  After several thrusts, Officer White was able to dislodge a piece of carrot that had lodged in the throat, which allowed normal airway flow to resume.  

Chief Thomas said, “Officer White’s quick recognition of the cameraman in distress and his immediate response prevented an unfortunate incident from turning into a tragedy.  Congratulations on a job well done.”