While waiting for a train at Salford Crescent, an off-duty Greater Manchester Police officer sprang into action and saved a stranger’s life. This heart-stopping moment shows what “never off duty” really means.
Chief Inspector’s Quick Thinking Powers a Life-saving Rescue
Chief Inspector Michael Parker, from GMP’s Roads Policing Unit, was passing through Salford Crescent station when he spotted a man collapsed on the floor, not breathing. Drawing on years of frontline experience, Mike immediately began CPR.
For around 10 minutes, he worked alone until ambulance crews arrived. But he didn’t stop there. The Chief Inspector kept up chest compressions for another 35 minutes to help paramedics deliver critical treatment.
When the air ambulance team arrived, they confirmed the man had regained a pulse thanks to Mike’s incredible determination and skill.
‘Never Off Duty’: Dedication Beyond the Uniform
Calm, decisive, and relentless under pressure, Chief Inspector Parker gave a collapsed stranger the best shot at survival. His heroic efforts were recently recognised at GMP’s Long Service Awards, a ceremony saluting officers’ professionalism and dedication – even off duty.
It’s a powerful reminder that for many in emergency services, the uniform might come off, but the instinct to save lives never does.
