Officers David Bell, 27, and Eric Perkins, 24, were monitoring their radio about the dispatch of an ambulance to 312 N. Martin St. The officers arrived before the paramedics to find Curtis Myers, 31, not breathing.

They performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) until relieved by paramedics. Myers was resuscitated, but is listed in serious condition at Ball Memorial Hospital.

Ball State Police Capt. Robert Fey said all police officers are considered "first responders," along with basic life-support emergency medical technicians, advanced life support paramedics, and hospital emergency room personnel.

"We are extremely proud of Bell and Perkins," he said. "I believe this is another example of the quality of personnel that we have on staff. Their action demonstrates their appreciation of the value of human life."

Bell recently celebrated his first anniversary as a Ball State police officer. He joined the department after working for Delaware County Corrections. Bell received an associate’s degree from Vincennes University.

Perkins is a reserve officer for the department.

By Marc Ransford, Communications Manager