Narragansett Cop Honored for Risking Life in Attempt to Save Drowning Victim

NARRAGANSETT, RI—A local police officer has been recognized for going above and beyond the call of duty and risking his life in an effort to save a drowning victim.

Officer Kevin O'Conner was the first person on scene after a man fell from the treacherous rocks at Hazard Rock and into the water on May 31.

Members of the Narragansett Fire Department were heading to the scene in a boat, but O'Conner didn't wait. He jumped into the water, retrieved the victim and performed chest compressions until firefighters arrived.

Unfortunately, the victim, 64-year-old James Votta of North Providence, didn't make it. But O'Conner risked his life to at least give the man a chance. It was an act of bravery that hasn't gone unnoticed by his peers in law enforcement along with witnesses on the rocks.

One witness was Kirk E. Pickell, a Narragansett resident and past President of the 100 Club, a private charity that gives financial assistance to the families of police offices, firefighters and paramedics who've died in the line of duty.

Pickell nominated O'Conner for the clubs's Bravery Award after watching him swim out to Votta and retrieve him during the rescue effort.

The award was given to O'Conner at the 100 Club's annual meeting June 9.

Photo caption: From left, 100 Club President Lawrence Filippelli, Past President Kirk E. Pickell, Narragansett Police Officer Kevin O’Connor and 100 Club First Vice President James Grundy.

O'Connor's award: