Deputy Administers Naloxone (Narcan), Revives Young Man
A Spokane Valley Sheriff’s Deputy responded to a medical call where a male was reportedly not breathing and blue, administered Naloxone. A short time later, the male became responsive and alert. He was transported to the hospital for additional medical treatment.
On June 13, 2020, at approximately 7:10 p.m., Spokane Valley Sheriff’s Deputy Troy Knutson responded to a medical call in the 12800 block of E. Sprague.
The caller advised a male in his early 20’s wasn’t breathing. He was described as “blue,” and the caller stated CPR had been started.
When Deputy Knutson arrived, he observed a group of people gathered around a young male lying on his back, in between two parked cars. The male was unconscious, his breathing was labored, and his face was turning blue.
Knowing the male appeared close to death, Deputy Knutson asked if anyone knew the male and if he had recently used heroin or any other drugs. One of the individuals spoke up, stating the male had just used heroin.
Deputy Knutson retrieved his Naloxone from his patrol car and administered one dose. After approximately one minute, no improvement was observed. Deputy Knutson administered a second dose as Spokane Valley Fire personnel arrived and assumed care of the male.
A minute or two later, the male regained consciousness and became alert. He was transported to the hospital for additional medical treatment and observation.
Deputy Knutson’s supervisor spoke a member of Spokane Valley Fire who stated, Deputy Knutson’s actions of administering Naloxone saved the young man’s life.
Deputies have been carrying Naloxone in late 2017.