Jurors rushed to aid of medical examiner at trial

DETROIT (AP) -- Two jurors were among those who rushed to aid a Michigan medical examiner who had an apparent heart attack while being cross-examined during a murder trial. The Detroit Free Press reports witnesses say Oakland County medical examiner L.J. Dragovic's head tilted back and his face turned gray about 30 minutes into his cross-examination last Thursday by a Wayne County assistant prosecutor. The 62-year-old was testifying as part of a case in Wayne County Circuit Court in Detroit. A lawyer shouted that Dragovic was having a heart attack. CPR was performed and a defibrillator used. Two jurors, a police detective and an assistant Wayne County medical examiner aided Dragovic. Dragovic was taken to a hospital, where he was recovering. The Detroit News reports Oakland County says he was listed in stable condition. Mike Zehnder, Oakland County's director of public services, thanked everyone in the courtroom who helped Dragovic. "From what I hear, there were several people in the courtroom who knew just what to do," Zehnder said. "On behalf of Brooks and the administration, Oakland County thanks each and every one of them for their quick action." Dr. Kanubhai Virani will assume chief medical examiner duties for Oakland County while Dr. Dragovic recovers. Published: Mon, Sep 3, 2012