Riverside Police Department Press Release

Officers Recognized on Anniversary of Rescue

Riverside, Ca-  On December 20, 2000, Riverside Police Department's Detective Derek McGowan, Officer Christian Dinco, and Officer Felix Medina, was well as members of the Riverside Fire Department, were recognized for their 1999 efforts in saving the life of now 4-year old, Michaela Audrey Dora.

In January 1999, officers responded to a 911 call involving a 2 year old that was found unconscious in a family swimming pool.  Detective McGowan and Officer Dinco arrived within 4 minutes of the emergency call and immediately began CPR on Michaela, who was not breathing.  Medical personnel arrived and continued efforts to revive little Michaela.

Michaela and her family return every year to celebrate the gift of life with the officers and medical personnel that saved hers.

Detective McGowan and Michaela.