Officials are crediting a police officer who saved a 2-month-old child after he stopped breathing in Crystal Lake and his 14-year-old brother called 911.
The Crystal Lake Fire Rescue Department and Crystal Lake Police Department were called on Tuesday to an address in Crystal Lake for a report of an infant needing medical assistance.
A 14-year-old boy called 911 reporting his baby brother was not breathing, according to Crystal Lake police.
Officer Jennifer Zielinski, who was patrolling in the area prior to the call, immediately responded to the scene.
Zielinski located a 2-month-old child who was not breathing and was unresponsive. She quickly relied on her training and applied lifesaving measures, officials said.
The infant began breathing again and became alert and responsive.
Paramedics transported the baby to a local hospital for further observation and Zielinski escorted the mother to the hospital.
Police said there was a language barrier between the parents and emergency personnel, but the brother and sister translated and relayed important information to the 911 dispatcher.
“Because of this, they each should be recognized for their bravery and composure during this scary incident,” the police department said.
On Thursday, the family stopped by the Crystal Lake Police Department for a tour and to thank Zielinski for her quick action.
Zielinski provided the baby a blanket and two stuffed animals as a gift, the police department said, adding that the baby is doing well now.
“Not only do we want to recognize Officer Zielinski for her quick thinking and lifesaving efforts, but we would also like to recognize the infant’s 14-year-old brother and 10-year-old sister,” police officials said in a statement.