Officer's Anxiety Attack Diverted Ambulance from Dying Shooting Victim, Report States
A newly released investigative report has unveiled a disturbing incident in Bridgeport, Connecticut, where a police officer experiencing an acute anxiety attack reportedly took the ambulance that was dispatched for a man dying from a police shooting. The event, which occurred on March 31, 2025, raises profound concerns about emergency medical response protocols and the allocation of critical resources during life-threatening situations.
The Fatal Chase and Shooting
According to the report, the chain of events began when Bridgeport Police Officer Yoon Heo engaged in a pursuit of Dyshan Best. During the chase, Officer Heo discharged his firearm, striking Best. Emergency medical services were immediately notified, and an ambulance was dispatched to the scene to provide urgent care to the critically wounded man.
The Ambulance Diversion
However, in a startling turn of events, the report details that another officer on the scene, who was reportedly suffering from a severe anxiety attack following the shooting, commandeered the very ambulance sent for Best. This diversion delayed medical attention for the gunshot victim. Tragically, Dyshan Best succumbed to his injuries. The report does not specify the exact impact of the delay on the outcome, but it underscores a critical failure in prioritizing emergency care.
Questions Over Protocol and Training
This incident has ignited a fierce debate regarding police training and established emergency response procedures. Key questions being raised include:
- Protocol Violations: Were there clear guidelines for managing officer distress that should have prevented the ambulance diversion?
- Resource Allocation: How are emergency vehicles prioritized when multiple critical situations, including officer welfare, arise simultaneously?
- Mental Health Support: What immediate support systems are in place for officers involved in traumatic incidents to prevent such conflicts?
The Bridgeport Police Department has acknowledged the report but has not yet issued a detailed public statement on potential disciplinary actions or planned changes to policy. The case is expected to undergo further internal review and may influence broader discussions on police reform and emergency medical service coordination nationwide.
The Associated Press originally reported on this incident, highlighting a complex tragedy where the lines between victim, perpetrator, and responder became tragically blurred, with fatal consequences.
