Police officer, state trooper honored for saving driver's life

Officer Tino Serrano, Trooper Yudiel Santana credited with saving man after crash

MIAMI – A Miami Beach police officer and state trooper were honored Tuesday for saving the life of a driver involved in a crash on Interstate 195.

Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Yudiel Santana and Officer Tino Serrano wouldn't work together on a typical day. But Feb. 22 was anything but typical.

It was about 12:30 p.m. when Santana was called to a crash on I-195 near Miami Avenue. The 32-year-old driver inside was not breathing.

Santana quickly jumped into action, pulling the driver out of the car and performing CPR, something he had only used in training up until that point.

It was about that time that Serrano, who was returning from a visit at Jackson Memorial Hospital, stumbled upon the scene and offered to help.

The Miami Department of Fire-Rescue honored Santana and Serrano with its lifesaving award.

Rescuers said without their actions, Kareem Fareed Shaker might not have survived.


About the Author:

Liane Morejon is an Emmy-winning reporter who joined the Local 10 News family in January 2010. Born and raised in Coral Gables, Liane has a unique perspective on covering news in her own backyard.