A Savannah-Chatham Metro Police officer has earned the spotlight after helping a runner cross the finish line at Saturday's Rock 'N' Roll Marathon in Savannah.

When Sgt. John Cain, a 27-year veteran with the department, saw runner Robert McCoy fall approximately 200 yards from the finish line, he — along with other officers and paramedics — rushed to his side.

According to the police department, McCoy — who had cuts on his face and legs — finished the half marathon with Cain's help while a paramedic followed behind on a bicycle.

"I could feel in my heart that he needed to finish," Cain said. "There was a purpose for him doing so and he wanted to accomplish the goal."

A photo of Sgt. Cain and McCoy was posted on the SCMPD Facebook page and as of this writing, it's been shared more than 1,830 times.

"I am just glad I was in a position to help him do that," the veteran said. "He is an inspiration to me, he is the hero in this story."

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Julian Conley listens during opening statements in his trial at Fulton County Superior Court in Atlanta on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025. The 25-year-old is accused of fatally shooting 8-year-old Secoriea Turner in July 2020. (Abbey Cutrer/AJC)

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