Alder Christine Kim presents citation honoring Parking Authority officer Jaylen Jackson for life-saving actions

Alder Christine Kim presented an official citation at the July 7 meeting of the New Haven Board of Alders honoring New Haven Parking Authority Security Officer Jaylen Jackson for a life-saving intervention at the Temple Street garage on June 9, 2026.

"He stayed present, listened, and spoke with patience and sincerity until trust was earned and a life was saved," Kim read from the citation, saying the board wanted to recognize "what the best of New Haven is about in Mr. Jackson." The citation credited Jackson’s empathy and judgment in a crisis when professional training was not available.

The citation—dated July 7, 2026, and read aloud in City Hall—noted that Jackson’s conduct exemplified "courage, compassion, and life-saving heroism," and that his actions prevented further harm while helping preserve life. Jackson was identified in the record as a security officer with the New Haven Parking Authority.

Alder Kim framed the recognition as an example of civic character the city seeks to honor, thanking Jackson for his humility and urging the community to value small acts that can make a major difference.

The board presented the citation publicly during its meeting; there was no recorded debate or vote on the recognition, which was delivered as a special presentation.