A Columbus police officer and a public works employee were recognized today for saving the life of a coworker who was choking.

Columbus police are reporting that the coworker began choking on a piece of food near Pence and State Streets on July 10th. Rudy Zeigler, with the department of public works, flagged down Officer Brian Voyles who was on patrol in the area.

Voyles worked with Zeigler to perform the Heimlich maneuver, which dislodged the food, allowing the victim to breath again. Voyles was recognized with a letter of commendation during today’s Board of Public Works and Safety meeting.