'He didn't die alone': Man who performed CPR on Portland machete attack victim speaks
Video link
PORTLAND, Ore. -- When crowds started running away from the scene during the brutal MAX train stabbings on Friday, Michael Kennedy ran toward it.
Kennedy, a former paramedic, was there on the train, one car away. He sprung into action and started helping Rick Best, one of the two victims who ultimately passed away.
snip
The former paramedic knew it was bad. He said both men had their throats slit near the carotid artery. Best appeared to be in worse shape, so Kennedy, inside that train, knelt beside him and worked to clear his airways.
snip
Eventually firefighters arrived at the scene, confirming what Kennedy already knew. Rick Best, a veteran and city employee who was attacked for standing up again hate, was gone.
Taliesin Namkai Meche died at the hospital. Micah Fletcher is expected to survive.
Kennedy said he hasn't slept since.
On Sunday, he wanted to share two messages. First and foremost, to Best's family.
"He was surrounded by people who were soothing him and caring for him," he said. "He did not die alone."
Second, Kennedy has a message to and about the man charged with this horrific attack.
"I worry about the hundreds of people who are impacted like this. And I hope that it is labeled what it is. It was a terrorist attack. I want that to be clear," Kennedy said.
We reached out to Best's family today and spoke via phone to his 19-year-old son. He said the family is requesting privacy, but wanted people to hear a phrase his dad said a lot during his life.
"I can't stand by and do nothing."
Video at link - interview with Kennedy starts at 2 minute point.
He really wanted the family to know Best died surrounded by caring people.
And he is adamant it was a terrorist attack and should be labeled as such.