Plumstead Officer Honored With Department's Life Saving Award

PLUMSTEAD TOWNSHIP, PA — The Plumstead Police Department has awarded a life saving award to one of its officers for his quick actions during an incident in April in neighboring Buckingham Township.

On April 26 at 3:30 p.m., Officer Patrick Raubenstein was actively monitoring Bucks County Police Radio when he heard Buckingham officers being dispatched to a reported traffic accident on Redfield Road. The situation quickly escalated when it was reported that the driver of the vehicle was armed and attempting to attack residents.

Officer Raubenstine, who was also training a new officer at the time, responded immediately to the scene with lights and sirens, activating his body-worn camera while en route. While responding, he monitored radio transmissions, which indicated that the suspect was armed with a knife. He then heard that a taser deployment had been unsuccessful, followed by a report of shots fired and the suspect being down.

Upon arrival, Officer Raubenstine quickly retrieved both the departmental and his personal medical kits and rushed to assist the officers who were rendering aid to the wounded suspect.

"Without hesitation, he assessed the suspect's injuries and identified a 'sucking chest sound,' suggesting a collapsed lung," said Chief David Mittin. "He applied a chest seal to the wound and had the suspect carefully rolled onto his side. Using his emergency medical training, Officer Raubenstine located an exit wound on the suspect's back and applied a second chest seal."

He continued providing care, including applying direct pressure to the chest wound, until EMS and additional first responders arrived to transport the suspect to the hospital for advanced medical treatment.

"Throughout this incident, Officer Raubenstine demonstrated exceptional composure, professionalism, and courage," said the chief. "His actions reflect the core values of our department - dedication, integrity, fairness, and courage - and represent the high standards our community expects and deserves."

He continued, "Officer Raubenstine proved to be a great asset to this department and to the residents who we serve. His quick and decisive actions in less than ideal conditions, assisted in saving the life of another person. It is with great honor that Officer Patrick Raubenstine is awarded the Plumstead Township Police Department’s Life Saving award."