Off Duty Trooper Applies Tourniquet, Saves Life

Brown County - Just before 4:00 PM on Saturday, August 14, 2021, Trooper Matt Hatchett was off duty and driving home in his Indiana State Police vehicle after completing his training commitment for the Indiana Army National Guard when he was flagged down by a group of motorcycle riders on Sunset Drive near Sweetwater Lake in Northeast Brown County.

The motorists requested assistance for a female motorcycle operator who had crashed while operating the vehicle and was lying in the grass off the side of the road struggling with injuries and losing consciousness. Trooper Hatchett quickly grabbed his medical gear and began assessing the rider when he noticed severe damage to one of the victim's lower legs which caused heavy bleeding. Trooper Hatchett applied a tourniquet to the leg to stop blood loss from the injury. This possibly saved the female motorcycle rider's life. She was then flown, via medical helicopter, to an Indianapolis Hospital.

This crash is being investigated by Brown County Sheriff’s Office, any inquiries regarding the crash investigation shall be directed to the BCSO.

Indiana State Police Sgt. Greg Day praised the quick thinking and efforts of Trp. Hatchett, “Even though he was off-duty, Trooper Hatchett put his training into action without hesitation. His efforts no doubt saved a life. Our thoughts are certainly with the crash victim and her family.”

Trooper Hatchett has served as an Indiana State Trooper for nearly four years and resides in Brown County with his family. All Indiana State Troopers are issued tourniquets as part of their duty gear. Officers train annually on the benefits and proper application of tourniquets.

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