Vancouver Man Runs Toward Gunfire to Help Victims During Raptors Parade Shooting

After a brief pause, fear took over. People ran in every direction, pushing through the crowd in an effort to escape. Parents grabbed their children, bags were dropped, and screams echoed throughout downtown Toronto.

Training Takes Over in a Crisis

While many fled the area, Kern instinctively moved toward the danger. Drawing on years of training, he formed a wedge with his arms and pushed through the crowd toward the source of the gunfire. To get a clearer view above the chaos, he climbed onto a large cement block.

From there, Kern spotted two injured individuals lying on the ground. Paramedics were already treating a male victim, but a woman nearby was unattended.

Immediate First Aid When It Mattered Most

Kern quickly reached the woman and began providing basic first aid. She had fallen during the panic and struck her head on the pavement, suffering a visible injury. Soon, other trained volunteers arrived to help, including an off-duty doctor and a nurse. Together, they worked to stabilize her condition until an ambulance arrived.

Kern and the volunteers assisted the woman into the ambulance, where she was transported to hospital for further medical care.

A Lifetime of Service and Preparedness

Kern is retired after a 35-year career in law enforcement, having served as a sheriff, corrections officer, and probation officer. He currently serves as a sergeant-major with the Canadian Armed Forces’ 39 Signal Regiment in Vancouver and volunteers with St. John Ambulance.

Reflecting on the incident, Kern stressed how critical first aid knowledge is during unexpected emergencies.

“Knowing where the shots were coming from, I was heading in that direction and rolling the dice to help people who needed it,” he said.

This story was originally reported by CBC News. You can read the full original article here: 👉 Vancouver man runs toward gunfire to help victims during Raptors parade shooting

Why First Aid Training Is So Important

Public emergencies can happen without warning, especially in large crowds. Kern’s actions highlight how proper first aid and CPR training can give individuals the confidence and skills to act Quickly before professional responders arrive.

 first aid can make a real difference in moments like these. Courses such as Standard First Aid and CPR training provide comprehensive, hands-on skills that prepare people to respond effectively in high-stress situations. If you’re looking to build these life-saving skills, consider enrolling in a program like the Standard First Aid and CPR courses offered by Winnipeg First Aid.

Learn More: Be Ready to Help

Being prepared isn’t just for professionals—it’s for everyone. You can also explore these trusted resources to learn more about emergency response and first aid:

• https://www.wikihow.com/Do-Basic-First-Aid

• https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/default.htm

• https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-a-Bullet-Wound