Jean Claude Leroux, 67, collapsed in cardiac arrest at Euston station in February and was revived after British Transport Police officers and an off-duty nurse performed CPR and delivered one defibrillator shock. Sgt Ben Hawkins began chest compressions about 45 seconds after Claude fell, and the team’s quick actions restarted his heart. Claude was taken to UCL Hospital and, months later, met his rescuers to express his gratitude and resolve to enjoy life.
‘Without the BTP I Probably Wouldn’t Be Here’: Cardiac Arrest Survivor Thanks Officers After Euston Rescue
Jean Claude Leroux says police officers saved his life when he collapsed at Euston station [BBC]
Jean Claude Leroux, 67, says he was unprepared to die when he collapsed in cardiac arrest at Euston station in February. Known as Claude, he credits a quick-thinking team of British Transport Police (BTP) officers and an off-duty nurse with saving his life.
Rapid Response Restarted His Heart
Claude recalled feeling his heart race as he hurried to catch a train. "I checked my train time and the light went out. I collapsed," he said.
Within moments Sgt Ben Hawkins and other BTP officers reached him. "I found Claude in cardiac arrest," Sgt Hawkins said. "I started CPR immediately — 45 seconds from him dropping to the floor was when I first started chest compressions." The officers and the off-duty nurse then used a defibrillator; Claude needed a single shock to restore his heartbeat.
Sgt Ben Hawkins said it was a "remarkable" feeling to restart Claude's heart [BBC]
"They saved my life. They did an amazing job, they revived me and I am still alive. Without them I probably wouldn't be here any more," Claude said.
From Station To Hospital
After the on-site resuscitation, Claude was transferred to UCL Hospital. Sgt Hawkins accompanied him and said even the consultants and paramedics were astonished by how quickly the team had revived him.
Months later, Claude met his rescuers and expressed his gratitude. "They were so confident in using the defibrillator. I only needed one shock and it started my heart beating again." He said the ordeal has changed his outlook: "I'm resolved to enjoy my life — no more worries. If I want to go away, I will go away. I'm so delighted I can be here, alive again."
Why Immediate CPR And Defibrillation Matter
Sgt Hawkins emphasised the importance of early intervention: "The defibrillator is exactly what saved his life. Early defibrillation and early CPR get the heart pumping again. We're really lucky to be able to bring him back."
This incident highlights how rapid action by trained responders and accessible defibrillators can produce remarkable outcomes in public places.
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