DOUGLAS — Douglas leaders and first responders recognized six individuals Monday, Sept. 16, after their heroic actions last month saved a man whose pick-up truck ended up in Kalamazoo Lake.
On Thursday, Aug. 15, John Shashaguay suffered a medical emergency, lost consciousness and lost control of his vehicle, which veered off the road and ended up submerged in the lake.
According to Police Chief Steve Kent, the quick actions of Richard Beaudreault, Jason Lott, Michael O’Brien, Maxwell Klemm, Amie Shanahan and Austin Waalkes prevented a terrible tragedy.
“These individuals went above and beyond, risking their own safety to save a life,” Kent said during the regular meeting of Douglas City Council. “Their actions were nothing short of heroic, and the community is truly grateful.”
The group worked together to break the truck’s windows and pull the unconscious Shashaguay to safety. They were able to rescue him before emergency responders arrived at the scene.
“We are incredibly proud of these six residents, whose quick thinking and courage made all the difference,” said Mayor Cathy North. “They represent the very best of our community, and we thank them from the bottom of our hearts.”
Shashaguay and his brother, Joe, were also present Monday. Joe offered his gratitude to the six men and women who saved his brother’s life.
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“I have no idea what that day could’ve been like if you hadn’t done what you did. We would’ve gone to a funeral for sure. It could have been so much worse. I can’t even imagine. What you did, even though you might not think it was a big deal, was huge. On behalf of our family, thank you.”
— Contact reporter Austin Metz at ametz@hollandsentinel.com.
This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: Douglas honors locals for quick thinking that likely saved man’s life
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