Cardiac Arrest Survivor Saved Thanks to PulsePoint Respond Smartphone App and Quick Bystander Action

Dennis Hoggarth survived a cardiac arrest at a Burlington Costco on May 23, 2025, due to rapid action from bystanders alerted by the PulsePoint Respond app. The app notifies CPR-trained individuals of nearby cardiac arrests, allowing them to provide immediate assistance. An off-duty firefighter/paramedic, present in a nearby business, responded to the scene and collaborated with Costco employees and other bystanders to perform CPR. They delivered two shocks using an automated external defibrillator (AED) before the arrival of Burlington Fire Department and Skagit County Fire District #6 personnel. These first responders initiated advanced life support and transported Hoggarth to a local hospital, where he later recovered and returned home.

Josh Pelonio, Director of Skagit County EMS, noted that early CPR and defibrillation can significantly enhance the survival odds for cardiac arrest victims. The PulsePoint app plays a crucial role in connecting trained individuals with those in need during emergencies. Skagit County EMS encourages all CPR-trained individuals to download the app to become part of this life-saving network.