Tourist Collapses in Playa del Carmen: Incredible Rescue Story from Quintana Roo

A tourist caused alarm in the heart of Playa del Carmen when he suddenly collapsed on the street, seemingly suffering from a heart attack. His body convulsed for a minute before bystanders rushed to his aid. Among them was a nurse-turned-taxi driver, who arrived on the scene before the ambulance.

The man, known as James, 56, was walking along 10th Street in downtown Playa del Carmen when he fainted and began to convulse. His friend and a group of bystanders immediately called for help. Another tourist, believed to be American, performed CPR on James.

James’ friend watched in horror as James’ eyes rolled back and he bit his tongue during the convulsions, causing him to bleed. Onlookers called 911, and an ambulance arrived about 10 minutes later.

However, a local taxi driver, who claimed he was a nurse, arrived before the paramedics. He checked James’ vital signs and provided initial assistance. When the paramedics arrived, James’ friend informed them that James hadn’t eaten in 18 hours and had taken some medication. He also mentioned that James had no history of similar incidents, hypertension, or diabetes.

The paramedics assessed James, who appeared slightly disoriented. He signaled that he didn’t know where he was. He was then taken to a hospital for further evaluation and treatment of his sudden convulsions.