Deputies perform life-saving CPR at Bills game

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- A 61-year-old man is in stable condition after receiving five minutes of life-saving CPR at Highmark Stadium during the first half of Sunday's Bills game, the Erie County Sheriff's Office announced.

Three reserve deputies and a good Samaritan administered CPR on a rotating basis before medical crews used an automated external defibrillator. The man's pulse returned after the second shock, officials said.

The man is currently at Mercy Hospital of Buffalo in stable condition.

"I extend my thoughts and prayers to this gentleman and his family,” Erie County Sheriff John Garcia said in a statement. “The courageous and heroic efforts of our reserve deputies, the good Samaritan and medical crews deserve to be recognized. They responded to a chaotic moment quickly and consistent with their training."

Reserve deputies Shawn Kephart, Bernie Kowal and Josh Pasnik administered CPR.

The incident occurred just two weeks after Congress passed the HEARTS Act, a bipartisan law that will provide more AEDs in schools and make CPR training more accessible. Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer pushed for the law after Hamlin's life was saved in January 2023 by CPR and an AED following his cardiac arrest.

“This is an important reminder we should all know CPR and how to use an AED. I encourage
everyone who doesn’t to sign up for training," Garcia said. "A medical incident such as this can happen anywhere, anytime. Preparation and knowledge can go a long way to increasing the chance of survival.”