Contact: Luke Hellinga, Chief of Police
Office: (310) 750-9830
Email: lhellinga@pvestates.org
Website: www.PVEstates.org
Palos Verdes Estates to Honor Local Nurse and Police Officer for Lifesaving Actions
Palos Verdes Estates, CA – The Palos Verdes Estates City Council will formally recognize Officer John Zabukovec and registered nurse Rachel Ebright for their decisive and lifesaving actions during a critical emergency that occurred in the City on October 30, 2025.
On Thursday, October 30, 2025, at approximately 9:00 a.m., Rachel Ebright, a resident of Palos Verdes Estates, was driving on Paseo Del Mar with her young children when she noticed what appeared to be a man lying in the roadway behind a parked vehicle. Concerned for his safety, she stopped to help. As she approached, she saw the car’s rear window had been shattered, with glass scattered across the street. The man, later identified as Allen James, an Olympic athlete, was bleeding heavily, disoriented, and unable to focus.
Drawing on her training and experience as a registered nurse, Ms. Ebright immediately began providing aid while another bystander called 9-1-1. She quickly recognized that any movement intensified Mr. James’ bleeding. Understanding that continued blood loss could soon become fatal, she immobilized him and offered reassurance as they waited for first responders. Her swift actions were critical in slowing the bleeding and preserving his life.
Officer John Zabukovec responded to the radio call of a traffic collision and arrived on scene in two minutes. Upon assessing the victim, he discovered a severe neck laceration with active arterial bleeding, an immediate life-threatening injury. Officer Zabukovec recognized that without rapid intervention, Mr. James would not survive.
Acting decisively, Officer Zabukovec stabilized Mr. James’ neck and applied direct pressure to control the bleeding. Ms. Ebright assisted in preparing medical supplies, including gauze and a hemostatic dressing, from the officer’s first-aid kit. Officer Zabukovec manually occluded the damaged artery, maintaining pressure for approximately ten minutes until paramedics arrived.
Paramedics later confirmed that the actions of Officer Zabukovec and Ms. Ebright were lifesaving and directly prevented a fatal outcome. Their awareness, courage, and willingness to act without hesitation made the difference between life and death.
The Palos Verdes Estates City Council will formally recognize Officer Zabukovec and Ms. Ebright at the February 24 Council Meeting, held at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall (340 Palos Verdes Drive West, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274). Mr. James will also be present.
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