Taxi driver’s life saved by quick thinking colleagues and firefighter at Heathrow Airport taxi rank feeder

An ordinary day took a dramatic turn at Heathrow Airport taxi rank feeder park when a London taxi driver collapsed suddenly, prompting the heroic actions of colleagues and a firefighter.

As onlookers scrambled for help on Sunday 2 June, another driver dashed to the canteen, urgently seeking a first aider.

According to TAXI Newspaper, among the responders was Martin Ewins, a 42-year-old firefighter with 18 years of experience. Initially, it appeared the driver had merely tripped. However, as Martin approached, it became clear the situation was far more critical. The driver, lying in the recovery position thanks to a quick-thinking colleague, was unresponsive and without a pulse.

Recognising the gravity, Martin swiftly directed others to retrieve a defibrillator from the CRS Landside Heathrow Property building and called for an ambulance. With the assistance of another cabbie who began mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, Martin commenced CPR and used the defibrillator to administer shocks to the driver’s heart.

For 10 to 12 tense minutes, Martin and his fellow rescuer battled to revive the driver, administering three shocks in total. Their relentless efforts kept the driver alive until paramedics arrived and took over.

In those critical moments, Martin’s training and calm leadership proved lifesaving. The driver, after a period of hospitalisation, is now said to be home and recovering well.

Suzanne Sullivan, Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association (LTDA) Airport Representative, said: “When speaking to Martin, I found him very humble, and he was just so pleased he could help. How amazing to have saved a life! The driver was in hospital for some time but is recovering well and is now at home.

“So, from all of us in the Feeder Park and those who know this driver, we are eternally grateful to Martin Ewins.”