Geneva officers honored for saving woman who left hospital and ran into traffic

GENEVA, Ill. - Four Geneva police officers were recognized this week for their lifesaving efforts last year.

Sgt. Mark Russo and Officers Dan Yates, Bob Pech, and Sarah Sullivan were honored during a Jan. 6 City Council meeting and presented with Life Saving Medals.

On Oct. 15, 2024, the officers responded to a report of a suicidal woman near Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital. Hospital staff had observed the woman bleeding from her neck and legs before she dodged staff members and left the building.

The officers located her near the hospital’s fitness center along Randall Road. When attempts to deescalate the situation failed, the woman ran into traffic and was nearly hit by a car. The officers pursued her, eventually detaining her against a guardrail.

During the incident, the woman retrieved a razor blade from her waistband and tightly clutched it in her left hand, causing more bleeding and posing an "extreme danger" to the officers, officials said.

Officer Yates managed to disarm her, and another razor blade was later found in her sock.

Geneva Police Chief Eric Passarelli commended the officers for their bravery and professionalism.

"There is no doubt these officers helped save the woman’s life due to their diligent and selfless efforts," he said.

The Life Saving Medal is awarded under the department’s policy to officers whose actions in the line of duty save lives through prompt and selfless measures, often at great personal risk.

If you or a loved one is feeling distressed, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The crisis center provides free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to civilians and veterans. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Or text HOME to 741-741 (Crisis Text Line).

CLICK HERE for the warning signs and risk factors of suicide. Call 1-800-273-TALK for free and confidential emotional support.