#Bridgeport CT – Feb. 7, 2014– Bridgeport police officers were flagged down late Thursday and discovered an unresponsive man who collapsed while shoveling snow for a neighbor.

The officers conducted cardiopulmonary resuscitation on the 53-year-old male, who did not have a pulse, while awaiting medical personnel. The man remains in critical condition at Saint Vincent’s Medical Center.

“These officers put their training to work and saved a life,” said Police Chief Joseph L. Gaudett. Jr. “We are receiving updates from the hospital. We are hopeful but the next few days will be key. I can’t say  how proud I am of these officers. I’m not sure they have yet comprehend what they did.”

The officers were in the area of Cottage Street when they observed a woman flagging them down and a man prone in the street. She stated that he collapsed while shoveling snow for a neighbor.

Officer Darion Csech began performing CPR. Officer Matthew Goncavles assisted him trying to see if the man regained a pulse.

Bridgeport Fire and American Medical Response arrived and medics assumed medical treatment.

At Saint Vincent’s, medical personnel were able to regain a pulse.

“My hope is that he will make a full recovery and my prayers are with him and his family,” said Mayor Bill Finch. “I know the prognosis is uncertain but I am so grateful for what these officers did. At the end of the day, they provided hope.”

Officer Csech and Officer Goncalves received applause when they arrived to work today.

“It’s nice to know this afternoon that he is holding on,” said Csech, who learned CPR in the training academy.