State Trooper recognized for his life saving actions on a drownin...

Press release

Major Brent M. Davison, Troop B Commander, and members of Troop B would like to recognize Trooper James A. VanValkenburg from the State Police in Keeseville for his life saving actions on August 5, 2024.

On August 5, 2024, at approximately 1:06 p.m., Trooper VanValkenburg responded to Grove Street in the town of AuSable for a report of a 19-month-old child who was unconscious and not breathing due to a possible drowning. When Trooper VanValkenburg arrived on the scene, he observed a family member performing CPR on the child and the child did not appear to be breathing. Trooper VanValkenburg took over CPR and soon after heard the child gasp for air. He then laid the child on its side, where he was able to find a femoral pulse, as they waited for EMS to arrive and he continued to monitor the patient. When the EMS arrived, Trooper VanValkenburg placed the child in the ambulance, where they transported the child to Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital and was later airlifted to the University of Vermont Medical Center's Pediatric Care Unit. As of today, the child was listed in stable but critical condition.

Trooper James A. VanValkenburg was able to remain calm and perform the life-saving actions necessary to regain breathing and a pulse. His exemplary actions helped to save the child's life while leaving a positive impression on the family and community. This is type of commitment and service the New York State Troopers strive to show to their community. Major Davison would also like to thank and recognize the family members who were performing CPR prior to Trooper VanValkenburg's arrival. Their actions were also instrumental in saving the child.