Winthrop Police Recognize Officer Guy Prather for Saving a Life While Off-Duty in Spain

WINTHROP — Chief John Goodwin is pleased to report that Officer Guy Prather is being recognized by the Winthrop Police Department for saving a man’s life while off-duty and on vacation in Spain. 

On Monday, April 28, at approximately 9:45 a.m. Central European Time, Officer Prather and his wife were on vacation in Arcade, Spain, and hiking when Officer Prather noticed a man who had fallen and was bleeding from his forehead. 

Officer Prather approached to provide assistance, and realized the man was in cardiac arrest and had no pulse. Officer Prather immediately began CPR, providing chest compressions for approximately six minutes until paramedics arrived to take over care. Even after paramedics arrived, Officer Prather continued to assist with a bag valve mask until additional personnel arrived. 

The patient regained a pulse and was eventually taken to a local hospital by medical helicopter. Officer Prather heard nothing further about the man’s condition that day and continued on his hike with his wife after providing assistance.

A day later, in the town of Caldas de Reis, Officer Prather and his wife were approached outside a cafe by two men who were friends of the victim. They informed Officer Prather that the patient had survived, and that doctors said the early application of CPR likely saved his life. 

Officer Prather and his wife then learned that the man he helped save — Alberto — was part of a group of hikers who were participating in the same multi-day hike to the Cathedral of Saint James in Santiago.

Officer Prather and the friends of the victim exchanged contact information, and days later, met up in Santiago, Spain, where the patient and his wife were able to join and meet them.

Officer Prather and his wife were able to spend two days in Spain with the patient, Alberto, and his wife Ana, and had dinner with them and some friends. 

“This was a truly incredible, emotional experience,” said Officer Prather. “I feel lucky to have been in the right place at the right time to help.”

Friends of the victim who work as police in Spain provided Officer Prather with two badges from their departments, and Officer Prather now intends to mail them Winthrop Police patches. 

Officer Prather will soon receive an official commendation from Winthrop Police for his actions.

“I couldn’t be more proud of Officer Prather, and the example that he sets for others,” said Chief Goodwin. “Even off-duty, our officers remain committed to saving lives and helping others.”