A Yavapai County Sheriff’s deputy, on duty in Bagdad, responded to a reported 911 call in which the line remained open although nothing was heard by YCSO dispatch personnel. The call originated from a home on Wilcox Drive.
Upon his arrival, Deputy John Vanderhoven knocked on the door of the residence and received no answer. Vanderhoven investigated further and entered the back yard where he discovered the lifeless body of a 34-year-old man hanging from a tree with a makeshift noose around his neck. Deputy Vanderhoven cut the rope, bringing the man down to the ground, where he confirmed that the victim was not breathing and had no pulse.
Vanderhoven called for paramedics and began CPR. After a few moments, the victim appeared to begin breathing but quickly lost respiratory function and heartbeat. The deputy continued with CPR until the arrival of the Bagdad Fire Department and Lifeline Ambulance. Prior to being air-lifted to John C. Lincoln Hospital in Phoenix, the man regained consciousness and was able to answer some questions. It was determined that the man had placed the 911 call before attempting suicide. There is no determination of foul play involved in this incident, and the man is fully expected to survive.
Deputy John Vanderhoven is a 17-year veteran of the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office.