Five deputies with the Berrien County Sheriff’s Department have been commended for their actions to save a woman’s life this year.
Speaking to the Berrien County Board of Commissioners Thursday, Sheriff Chuck Heit introduced Brian Root, Wesley Marcellus, Marcus Chartrand, Ethan Zeiger, and Lukas Runser. They were all involved in the March 5 incident at Arthur Dodd Memorial Park in Cass County.
Heit told commissioners the deputies were called to the park on a report of a women who was attempting suicide with a cord around her neck and who had poured gasoline on herself. The deputies talked to the woman, positioned themselves near her, and stopped her from hurting herself.
“Deputy Marcellus demonstrated courage as he rushed to the female, held her up so that she could not hang herself,” Heit said. “At that time, Deputy Root also rushed to help hold her off the ground. Deputies Chartrand and Zeiger were able to cut the extension cord to prevent her from being able to strangle herself. Deputies were able to guide her to the ground and attempt to keep her calm until the ambulance arrived.”
Deputy Runser stood ready with a fire extinguisher. Heit said the five are all to be saluted for their bravery and professionalism.
Root and Marcellus have been given Meritorious Service Award, Chartrand and Zeiger were given the Life Saving and Bravery Award, and Runser was awarded a Certificate of Commendation. Commissioners applauded them for their quick action.
Photo, let to right: Deputy Lucas Runser, Deputy Brian Root, and Deputy Marcus Chartrand.
