Heartfelt Reunion: London Man Meets Officers Who Saved His Life in the Square Mile

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March 2, 2025
4 min read

Heartfelt Reunion: London Man Meets Officers Who Saved His Life in the Square Mile

In the heart of London’s Square Mile, where the city’s tempo rarely slows, one man’s life was saved in a moment of urgency and teamwork. Mal Patel, a 58-year-old finance director and father-of-two, had no warning before collapsing from a sudden cardiac arrest on Cheapside. Thanks to the quick actions of police officers and a paramedic, he survived, and nearly a year later, he finally got to have a heartfelt reunion with his rescuers.

A passer-by flagged down PCs Neil Geddis and Jack Watson from the City of London Police, who immediately rushed to Patel’s aid. PC Watson began performing CPR while PC Geddis radioed for a defibrillator. Within two minutes, the Tactical Firearms Group, trained in advanced medical care, arrived and delivered a crucial electric shock to Patel’s heart. Motorcycle paramedic Paul Soffe soon followed, stabilising Patel before an ambulance transported him to a specialist cardiac centre.

By the time Patel was discharged, he had made a full recovery. But there was something left unfinished, finding the people who had saved his life. After months of trying, he happened to stop two firearms officers in the street, asking if they knew how to track them down. By sheer chance, it was their team that had been involved in his rescue.

The heartfelt reunion took place at Bishopsgate Police Station, where Patel finally had the chance to thank them in person. “Words can’t do justice to the gratitude my family and I have for everything you all did for me that day,” he told the officers. “Seeing you all and hearing about the skills you bring together as a team really brought home how truly underappreciated the force is. In us at least, you have advocates for life.”

Deputy Commissioner Paul Betts praised the officers’ professionalism, describing their response as “exemplary” and highlighting how their advanced medical training made all the difference.

“Our officers, and officers across the country, carry out lifesaving acts like this every day. It’s important to recognise them for it. I’m delighted that Mr Patel made a full recovery, and it was an honour to have him visit us.”

PC Watson has been nominated for a Royal Humane Society Bravery Award, an honour that recognises individuals who have performed courageous life-saving acts. The firearms officers involved are also set to receive a Commander’s Team Commendation. The Royal Humane Society, which has recognised acts of bravery for over two centuries, continues to highlight the importance of emergency response training. You can learn more about their awards and work here.

Paramedic Paul Soffe also reinforced the vital role of immediate action in medical emergencies. “Mr Patel’s survival was possible because of the officers’ quick thinking and use of a defibrillator. Early CPR and defibrillation more than double someone’s chances of survival, and they’re simple enough that any member of the public can do them before the ambulance arrives.”

For more stories on the people making a difference in London, visit EyeOnLondon City. We’d love to hear your thoughts—have your say in the comments below.