(Phoenix, AZ) -- Phoenix police used CPR to help save the life of an 80-year-old man at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The man stopped breathing while seated in a wheelchair in Terminal 3 on the evening of July 8. Officers Wayne Macklem and Don Dierks, along with Sky Harbor Operations Aide, Mogos Asfaha quickly responded. Officer Macklem checked for a pulse and could not detect one.

The officers laid the man on the floor. Officer Macklem began rescue breathing while Officer Dierks started chest compressions. The officers also connected an Automated External Defibrillator to the man, but the AED advised that no shock was needed. The officers continued CPR until firefighters arrived and took over life saving efforts.

The 80-year-old man had a detectable heartbeat when he was transported to the hospital. He remains under medical care. Phoenix firefighters who responded say the officers' actions were instrumental in saving the patient's life.

Sky Harbor has its own Phoenix Police Bureau and two Phoenix Fire stations located at the airport. Police officers patrol the airport terminals on foot and on bicycle, in addition to using traditional police cars to keep Sky Harbor's roadways and perimeters safe.