Springfield police officer recognized with Life Saving Award

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — A Springfield police officer was recognized with the Life Saving Award for saving a stabbing victim earlier this summer.

Officer Keagan Graves was presented his award last week by Chief Ken Scarlette and Mayor Misty Buscher in recognition of his actions on June 20. A doctor at HSHS St. John’s Hospital said Graves “absolutely” saved a man’s life that morning.

Department officials said Graves was dispatched to Normandy Road near Lake Victoria Drive at 12:45 a.m. A large gathering was taking place at that location; as he arrived, Graves saw the crowd scatter and vehicles took off.

Around the same time, another officer found a stabbing victim. Officials said Graves began treating the victim immediately, using combat gauze on the wound.

“Throughout the process, he remained calm and reassured the victim, explaining that although the treatment was painful, it would give him the best chance at survival,” officials said.

Paramedics arrived and transported the victim to HSHS St. John’s Hospital, where he received extensive treatment. A doctor at St. John’s Hospital said the victim survived thanks to Graves’ actions.

“Officer Graves’ willingness to go above and beyond, his calmness under pressure, and his ability to apply his training when it mattered most are the reasons he undoubtedly deserved this award,” Scarlette said.

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