LIHU‘E — Philip Banquel’s decision to drive a different route may have saved a man’s life.
The off-duty Kaua‘i Police Department lieutenant was on his way to pick up his son from a surf spot when he spotted his neighbor lying in his driveway.
“I normally don’t travel that way,” said Banquel. “It was just luck.”
The 56-year-old neighbor had collapsed while doing yard work on his property, hitting his head. Banquel stopped his vehicle to check the situation, radioed KPD dispatch, and began performing CPR.
“Luckily, the training and the police officer in me kicked in,” Banquel said.
Additional medical assistance did not arrive until seven minutes later. The man was transported to Wilcox Medical Center. The attending on-duty physician credited Banquel’s actions as a direct contributing factor in saving the man’s life.
For his actions that day, Banquel was honored by the Police Commission as the Employee of the Month this past Friday.
“You are an example of caring for our community. Regardless of whether we’re wearing a badge, we strive to make a difference in our community,” said KPD Chief Todd Raybuck. “And you didn’t only make a difference, you saved a man’s life. Had you not been here, it’s obvious that that man wouldn’t have been here today.”
This honor comes in the wake of a loss in the Banquel family and KPD force.
Banquel’s older brother, Sgt. David Banquel, 47, passed away on Jan. 6 as a result of acute respiratory failure from a COVID-19 viral respiratory infection.
He had served with KPD for 17 years.
“Dave always put others before himself,” Raybuck said Friday. “He was one of the kindest, most-humble public servants I’ve ever met in my career. He was a protector, a provider and a caretaker for his family, friends and community. His kindness, compassion and love for all will be missed but never forgotten.”
Correction: This story erroneously attributed the award to Sgt. David Banquel. It was Lt. Philip Banquel who received the award. This story was also updated to correct a quote from Philip Banquel.
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Guthrie Scrimgeour, reporter, can be reached at 647-0329 or gscrimgeour@thegardenisland.com.
