South Plainfield honors resident whose CPR revived man at park

South Plainfield officials presented a certificate of appreciation to Kathleen J. Book for performing CPR on a man who collapsed at Putman Park on June 1, 2026. According to remarks read by the police department, 911 dispatch and emergency responders confirmed the man had no pulse when Ms. Book began chest compressions; after her intervention and arrival of emergency medical services the patient was alert and later taken to the hospital for evaluation.

Ms. Book, who described herself as a longtime volunteer and frequent CPR trainee, said the response came instinctually. “I did this instinctually and through training,” she told the council. Police and council members praised her actions and presented a framed certificate; councilors said the department will promote awareness of safety measures at the park.