Acworth Officer Saves Choking Driver Using LifeVac Device

On Tuesday, June 4, 2025, at approximately 10:29 a.m., officers with the Acworth Police Department were dispatched to a medical emergency near the intersection of New McEver Road and Acworth Industrial Drive. The 911 caller, later identified as Steven Williams, reported he was choking on a plastic water bottle cap while driving. Williams was able to safely pull over and immediately contacted emergency services.

Corporal Severtson was the first officer to arrive on scene. Upon assessing the situation and recognizing that Williams’ airway was obstructed, she quickly deployed her department-issued LifeVac device. With one swift application, the LifeVac successfully removed the cap from Williams’ airway.

Williams was evaluated on site by emergency responders and is expected to make a full recovery.

This incident marks the second time Corporal Severtson has successfully used the LifeVac device since the Acworth Police Department equipped every officer with one in 2024. The LifeVac is a handheld, non-powered suction device designed to clear upper airway obstructions during choking emergencies. It uses a patented one-way valve system that prevents pushing the object deeper into the airway and instead creates a strong vacuum to pull the obstruction out.

The Acworth Police Department commended Corporal Severtson’s quick thinking and decisive action, crediting her with saving a life. Officers continue to receive training in emergency medical response, and the department emphasizes the importance of equipping officers with life-saving tools like the LifeVac.

For more information about the LifeVac device, visit www.lifevac.net.