Westfield Cops Recognized For Life Saving Cardiac Arrest Response

WESTFIELD, NJ - Westfield resident Michele Berardi credits several Westfield police officers for saving his life last year. This week, he was able to thank them in-person.

Berardi, 46, alongside his wife Cristina Mathis, met with officer Donald Perkins, Fire Captain Lou Cerchio, Firefighter Ryan Dullea, Firefighter Pat Carey and Officer Ryan Weiss to thank them for providing vital care to Berardi while he suffered from a cardiac arrest at his home in November.

Fire Captain John Gura, who was not at Wednesday’s meeting, was also recognized by Berardi for his efforts.

Mathis discovered her husband unresponsive in their Westfield home on Nov. 18, 2022, shortly after 1 p.m. Less than five minutes after calling 911, Officer Weiss arrived at the home, as well as Westfield Fire Department Engine 4 soon after.

Officer Weiss began administering CPR after an evaluation of Berardi and, using an automated external defibrillator (AED), delivered one shock to the resident. CPR efforts were continued as additional officers and paramedics arrived.

Following the shock, Firefighter Dullea noted that Berardi had regained a pulse. He was subsequently transported to Overlook Medical Center and made a full recovery.

"We are forever grateful to the Westfield Fire Department, Westfield Police Department, and all the first responders who saved Michele's life,” Mathis said in a statement. “We can't thank them enough for their quick and professional response during a critical moment."