Off-duty KCFD firefighter saves 7-year-old from drowning

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — One off-duty Kansas City firefighter has officially entered “hero status” after saving a 7-year-old child from drowning Monday night.

According to KCFD, just before 5:30 p.m., crews were dispatched to a home near North Overland Drive and Northwest 81st Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri on reports of a drowning.

Upon arrival, bystanders told emergency personnel that a 7-year-old had been underwater for an “undetermined amount of time.”

It was said that an off-duty firefighter happened to be on the scene and heard the commotion.

According to KCFD, the firefighter “immediately sprang into action and assessed the situation” before beginning CPR.

As the firefighter began the life-saving operations, 911 was notified and KCFD was dispatched. On arrival, KCFD found the off-duty firefighter and the child who was breathing and had a pulse.

KCFD eventually stabilized the patient and took the 7-year-old to Children’s Mercy Hospital. The child was later said to be in “stable” condition, however, KCFD said it is unknown whether the incident will have any long-term effects.

“This was outstanding work by the bystanders and KCFD’s own off-duty firefighter,” KCFD said. “Immediate CPR was crucial in saving the child’s life.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.