Produlith proudly honors the heroic act of André Jean
The entire Produlith family is extremely proud to recognize the heroic actions of its Director of Finance, André Jean. emonstrating exceptional composure, he rescued two individuals in distress during a serious accident that occurred last December in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu.
In recognition of this remarkable act, Québec’s Ministry of Public Security awarded André Jean a Citation of Honor—an official distinction presented to individuals who make outstanding contributions to public safety. Since 1972, the ministry has awarded nearly 900 decorations and citations, acknowledging acts of bravery that are often quiet but deeply inspiring.
The award ceremony was held on May 12 at the École Nationale de Police du Québec in Nicolet. André was accompanied by his partner, Fannie Cardinal, and his parents. Québec Premier François Legault was also in attendance and offered high praise for our colleague:
“Congratulations to the recipient for the remarkable nature of his intervention! Mr. André Jean faced the risk of saving two lives in unexpected and challenging circumstances. His humanity and civic spirit are truly admirable and deserve our gratitude and respect.”
A tragedy prevented just in time
Two people were inside the vehicle that ended up in the Richelieu River following an off-road crash: a 77-year-old woman and her 9-year-old granddaughter. Driving along Chemin Sainte-Thérèse at that very moment, André Jean didn’t hesitate to come to their aid for a second.
“I pulled over to the side of the road, took off my coat, and ran toward the river to help them,” recounted the day’s hero. “The SUV had flipped over. There were about four feet of water inside the vehicle. The driver was unconscious, hanging upside down. I saw a child sitting in the back but didn’t see anyone.”
As he was trying to unbuckle the driver, André Jean noticed the young girl in shock, curled up in the back seat of the vehicle: “I quickly lifted her out in my arms, brought her to the shore, and my partner took over to warm her up—she was showing early signs of hypothermia. I returned to the river to free the driver, stuck by her seatbelt and the steering wheel. I could see flames and smoke coming from under the hood! I eventually managed to get her out of that dangerous situation,” added the 42-year-old.
First responders arrive
It was then that police officers arrived at the scene of the accident and began resuscitation efforts on the woman before paramedics took over.
Sadly, she did not survive her injuries. Her granddaughter, however, was unharmed—thanks to André’s swift and selfless intervention.
A heroic act
A few days later, André received a call from Sergeant Frédéric Gaudreault of the Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu police department, who wished to nominate him for recognition, highlighting his bravery and humanity that helped save a life.
This act reminds us that one decision can sometimes make all the difference.
Thank you, André, for showing us that heroes don’t always wear capes. At Produlith, we are proud and honoured to have you among us.
