A recent traffic stop in Southport, Indiana, took a dangerous turn when a police officer overdosed on fentanyl while searching a suspect’s vehicle. Fortunately, the officer is now recovering.
According to the Southport Police Department, Lt. Tony Wilson conducted a traffic stop at a Speedway gas station on the south side of Indianapolis at around 7 p.m. on Friday, July 19. The driver in question was found to have a criminal record and no license.
According to reports, when Wilson searched the car, he stumbled upon a dollar bill that appeared to be covered in fentanyl. Inadvertently inhaling the white powder, Wilson passed out from its effects shortly after, but not before urgently calling for assistance.
The department stated that Lt. Wilson exhibited remarkable presence of mind as he called for medical assistance just before losing consciousness.
Wilson’s quick thinking and the rapid response from Indianapolis Fire Department crews were credited by the police for saving the life of the lieutenant.
Southport Police Chief Thomas Vaughn described the situation as an officer fighting for his life. He explained that the officer had inhaled something and was struggling to get help and administer Narcan, making for a chaotic and urgent situation.
According to the Southport Police Department, Wilson is anticipated to make a complete recovery.
The department is currently in the process of examining its procedures to determine if there is a requirement for additional equipment or devices to address calls related to narcotics in the future.
Wilson was one of the officers who responded to a mass shooting at Greenwood Park Mall in 2022, the department confirmed on Monday. During the incident, Wilson aided customers who were hiding by helping them evacuate to safety.
Wilson’s quick decision-making on Friday was attributed to his experience from similar scenarios, according to his superiors.
According to Chief Vaughn, the officer constantly evaluates different strategies and actively works to improve himself. “He looks at different things to do and works through those scenarios every day to be better,” Chief Vaughn stated. He added that if the officer was not as skilled as he is, the police department would be mourning another loss.
