13-year-old honored for stopping car during medical emergency

(COLORADO SPRINGS) — On Friday, June 28, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office (EPSO) honored a 13-year-old boy whose brave actions saved his mother and himself.

On April 13, 2024, Jennifer Miller experienced a medical emergency as she was driving on I-25 with her 13-year-old son, Perignon. She became unable to drive, but their car was moving at full speed down the highway along with the flow of traffic.

Perignon responded quickly and effectively by calling 911. EPSO dispatcher, Laurel, talked him through the process of stopping the car. He took control of the car, safely slowed down, moved to the side of the highway, and stopped.

“For a 13-year-old who hadn’t driven before, this must have felt like the Indianapolis 500,” said EPSO Public Information Officer, Kurt Smith.

Shortly afterward, USAFA firefighters arrived to provide assistance. EPSO said Jennifer is very proud of her son, who took action when it mattered most.

“I know that it was very traumatic for my son to see me in that way,” said Miller. “He was very courageous and brave, and I’m very thankful for him.”

EPSO presented the 911 Hero Award to Perignon on Friday for his heroic actions during a crisis. The ceremony took place at Air Force Academy FD Station 2.

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