The incident occurred Wednesday evening, in which an 8-year-old boy, identified as Gerard Butler, was struck by a Sarasota police officer’s cruiser while riding a dirt bike near the intersection of 23rd Street and Maple Avenue. The accident happened around 6:30 pm as the officer was clearing from an unrelated call. Body camera footage released by the Sarasota Police Department shows how an officer immediately sprang into action to try and help the child. The video details the quick but injurious seconds thereafter.
The audio from the body cam revealed that the officer immediately exited his vehicle, calling for urgent medical support as he approached an already-injured boy, initiated CPR by chest compressions, and kept reassuring the injured boy time to time with,
“It’s okay.”. It’s okay.”
These efforts continued until additional first responders arrived, taking over the child’s care. The scene was marked by the officer visibly distraught, attempting to stabilize the boy critically injured by the impact.
The collision drew an emotional reaction from the citizens around the community as several rushed to his side. One distraught family member can be seen running up and shouting,
“That’s my nephew. That’s my nephew,”
as other onlookers expressed frustration and shock over the incident. The community remains in such a state of alarm and sorrow over the injuries to the boy that one bystander confronted the officer for driving too fast.
The video has since led to a back-and-forth between many in the online and Sarasota communities, debating questions of safety and accountability.
In a news release, Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche addressed the accident and his condolences went to Butler’s family for enduring such turmoil with the rest of the community.
“The child is still hospitalized at this time, and we cannot imagine how difficult this is for his family,”
Chief Troche said, “Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are partnering with the Florida Highway Patrol to conduct a thorough investigation.” Chief Troche also confirmed that the officer involved is on restricted duty pending further investigations, as the department collaborates with the Florida Highway Patrol to review the accident’s circumstances.
Butler remains in serious condition, presently receiving his treatment at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, where he underwent surgery with close family by his side. There have been minimal updates regarding his recovery status; however, the family is optimistic and aware that he is receiving intensive medical attention. The authorities now call upon any eyewitness of the incident or a person who might have more details about the same to please come forward.
The community is called upon to help with the investigation. Anonymous tips can be called into Sarasota Crime Stoppers at 941-366-TIPS, as officials seek to ensure a thorough and transparent review.
