Detroit Fire Department Honors Cardiac Arrest Rescuers
Firefighters and neighbors are recognized for life-saving efforts during a cardiac arrest incident.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Heart Disease
The Detroit Fire Department recently awarded a Commissioner Unit Commendation to personnel who saved a man experiencing cardiac arrest. Neighbors of the victim were also honored for their critical role in performing CPR.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights the essential collaboration between community members trained in life-saving techniques and professional first responders in emergency situations.
The incident involved a 41-year-old resident who suffered sudden cardiac arrest. Free hands-only CPR training is currently available to the public twice a week at the local regional center.
The players
Mark Attles
He is the 41-year-old resident who survived a cardiac arrest incident on Griggs Street.
Mouchette Muhammad
She is a local neighbor who provided life-saving CPR to the victim until emergency responders arrived.
Mat Simela
He is a local neighbor who assisted in performing CPR on the patient.
Detroit Fire Department
The agency responsible for city-wide fire suppression and emergency medical services that conducted the rescue.
The details
Mark Attles suffered cardiac arrest outside his home on Griggs Street, where neighbors Mouchette Muhammad and Mat Simela intervened with CPR. Detroit Fire Department responders arrived on the scene and utilized a defibrillator to successfully resuscitate the man.
Timeline
August 4, 2026: Mark Attles suffered cardiac arrest on Griggs Street.
October 23, 2026: The Detroit Fire Department held an honoring ceremony.
Health Landscape
This successful resuscitation aligns with the American Heart Association's Chain of Survival, which prioritizes early bystander CPR and rapid defibrillation. It marks a clear validation of community-based training programs in improving emergency survival rates.
Local residents can improve their ability to assist in similar emergencies by attending free hands-only CPR training sessions. These classes are held twice a week at the Walter P. Harris Regional Center.
The takeaway
Quick action by bystanders who know CPR significantly improves the odds of surviving cardiac arrest. Residents are encouraged to seek local training opportunities to be prepared for similar life-threatening events.
Further reading
For more information on recognizing and responding to medical emergencies, visit the Detroit Heart Disease section.
