Thames Valley Police officer saves man’s life on Buckinghamshire M40
PC Henry Johnson had been driving home from a 12-hour shift when he saw a man standing on the wrong side of the overbridge railings on the M40.
Quickly understanding that he intended to take his own life, PC Johnson reported the incident, requested support and jumped out of his car to help him.
Despite bad weather and rush hour traffic, the officer managed to get hold of the man and pull him to safety on the hard shoulder, as far away as he could get from the live lanes – putting himself at “great risk” while doing so.
He then stayed at the scene until the man was taken to hospital, directing the relevant emergency services and providing “clear and concise” updates on the situation.
PC Johnson was presented with a commendation by Chief Constable Jason Hogg for his “incredible bravery” at the force’s training centre in Sulhamstead this month.
Inspector Jason Liles, who nominated him for the award, said the officer’s heroic initiative had “undoubtedly saved the man’s life”.
Adding: “I have no doubt that without his actions, it’s almost certain this man would have been struck by a vehicle and his family would have lost him.”
PC Johnson said: “I am grateful for the award and wish to thank all the other units that came down to assist that night.
“I also want to thank my friends, family and team for supporting me afterwards.”