Mayor to Honor Dracut Boy for Heroic Save

will be given special recognition and a citation for heroism from Peabody Mayor Ted Bettencourt on Thursday.

Patrick Canney of Dracut averted a potential catastrophe late Saturday morning when he grabbed the steering wheel from his father, John Canney, Jr., who had suffered a sudden seizure, and safely guided the family’s car off the highway into the breakdown lane.

Patrick then called 911 to report the incident.

State troopers arrived at the scene on Route 128 South to find Patrick and his younger sister safely outside the vehicle waiting for them.

“The presence of mind and grace under pressure demonstrated by young Mr. Canney is simply staggering,” said Bettencourt. “If these were the actions of an adult, we would all marvel at such heroism. The fact that they were performed by a 12-year-old is truly awe inspiring.”

Thursday’s ceremony will be held at at 4 p.m. during which Bettencourt, joined by members of the police and fire departments, will present Patrick with a special citation.