RIVIERA BEACH, Fla. — A 1-year-old boy, who was shot in the head two weeks ago and survived, opened his eyes for the first time on Wednesday.
He might not be alive if it weren’t for quick-thinking members of the Riviera Beach Police Department.
“We made that split-second decision that we couldn’t wait any longer for that help,” said Capt. Glen Meyer.
Police Chief Nathan Osgood said on the day of the shooting that, “the decision of the captain absolutely saved the child’s life.”
One-year-old Tyrus Jones, also known as Baby Ron Ron, was shot in the back of the head two weeks ago after police said a 17-year-old boy fired multiple rounds into a home.
“[When the child was shot] we’re talking to him and consoling him. We’re letting him know that things are going to be alright,” said Meyer.
Meyer and five of his officers -- Douglas, Hardrick, Bethea, Wilson and Ferazzoli – didn't wait for an ambulance. Instead they rushed Baby Ron Ron to St. Mary’s Medical Center where doctor’s took over.
“You’ve been credited with saving his life. Do you think you deserve that?” asked Contact 5 reporter Merris Badcock.
“I think the credit really goes to the staff at the hospital. They just do an amazing job each and every day at what they do,” said Meyer.
But even the baby’s Aunt Martina agrees that the officers’ swift action saved his life.
“We are grateful for his split-second decision … and it could have been another outcome,” said Aunt Martina.
It was a split-second decision that has given the baby another chance at life.
“He opened his eyes today … We are very hopeful,” said Aunt Martina.
“We were just at the right place at the right time,” said Meyer.
Tyrus is still recovering at the hospital, and Riviera Beach police officers have visited him nearly every day since he was admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit.
