The Wheaton Police Department is honored to announce that Officer Chris Kelly and his wife, Frankie, received a Life-Saving Award on Aug. 12 from the Village of Fontana, Wis., for their heroic actions that saved the life of a 2-year-old drowning victim on July 7, 2024 at Fontana Beach.  

While off-duty and enjoying a holiday weekend with their family at the beach in Fontana, Wis., Chris and Frankie noticed a commotion near the shoreline. A father was carrying his unresponsive daughter, a toddler, from the water. Without hesitation, Chris and Frankie, a registered nurse, immediately took the toddler and began performing CPR and rescue breathing. Thanks to their quick and skilled intervention, the toddler began showing signs of life before medics arrived. 

Chris and Frankie remained with the toddler and her family until Fontana medics took over life-saving efforts. The child was transported to a Milwaukee-area hospital, where she made a full recovery.  

“The Wheaton Police Department is proud to celebrate the heroic actions of Officer Chris Kelly and his wife, Frankie,” Wheaton Police Chief Princeton J. Youker said. “Their quick thinking saved a young life. Their commitment, on- and off-duty, exemplifies the true spirit of service and community in both policing and healthcare professions. Their actions are a powerful reminder of the impact first responders and everyday heroes have in critical moments.”  

Wheaton Police Officers receive extensive training to maintain their police officer certifications, including annual training in first aid, CPR, and use of AEDs. These skills are essential, as Wheaton police officers must be prepared for any type of emergency they encounter.