FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. — An Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office deputy has been recognized with a Life Saving Award after his quick response saved a man suffering from a severe injury in a Walmart parking lot.
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The incident occurred on July 26 when the OCSO Communications Center received a 911 call reporting a medical emergency. The caller said a man inside a gray sedan at the Fort Walton Beach Walmart was suffering from a serious wrist laceration.
Deputy Jacob “Kyle” Behrens was nearby on an unrelated call and responded immediately. Within minutes, he located the vehicle and saw that the man’s self-inflicted injury posed an imminent threat to his life.
Deputy Behrens applied a tourniquet less than a minute after arriving on scene, which controlled the bleeding and stabilized the man until medical personnel could take over. Officials said his rapid actions were critical in preventing further blood loss.
According to the OCSO, Deputy Behrens not only demonstrated tactical skill and sound judgment but also compassion and professionalism throughout the encounter. He reassured the subject in crisis and remained calm while providing lifesaving aid.
The OCSO said Deputy Behrens’ response and dedication to duty exemplify the agency’s mission and values. For these reasons, he was formally presented with the Life Saving Award.
