First Responders in College Station and Brazos County Commended for Life-preserving Measures

First Responders in College Station and Brazos County Commended for Life-preserving Measures

COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Urgency is the essence in an emergency, and it proved life-saving for Bill Wooten, an inhabitant of Brazos County, who was on the brink of a heart attack at his home on February 11. Wooten’s survival hinged on the prompt intervention of local first responders after his wife dialed 911 for help.

Swift Response to Emergency Call

Brazos County dispatcher Katie Riely picked up the call, launching a life-saving chain of events. Paramedic Jonathan Ortega of College Station, along with EMT Matthew Lopes, immediately dashed from Station 3 to Wooten’s site. They were accompanied by the South Brazos County volunteers Travis Lull, Jason Loyd, Jim Barker, Cliff Lafreniere, and Chris Vollenweider.

Unfaltering Efforts Save Life

Upon getting to the scene, the responders found Wooten pulseless and not breathing. He was immediately moved to Baylor Scott and White in College Station. College Station Fire Department officials have confirmed that Wooten arrived alert, oriented, and on the path to recovery. Astonishingly, he was discharged two days later without any neurological deficits.

Reflecting on the Life-Saving Efforts

Overwhelmed by the whole event, Wooten showered his gratitude on the committed efforts of the first responders in Brazos County and College Station. He commended the selfless firefighters, paramedics, and volunteers who played a pivotal role in saving his life.

Honoring the Heroes

Amidst a heartfelt gathering at the Visit College Station Welcome Center, the brave souls were honored for their life-saving actions. They were each gifted with a certificate and memento to flag the recognition.

Faster Response to Emergencies Makes Difference

Richard Mann, Chief of the College Station Fire Department, highlighted the urgency of mutual aid and quick response times in ensuring positive outcomes during emergencies. He emphasized the significance of the city procuring an additional ambulance to assist with response times.

The Event Brings Closure

For Wooten, this event was not only to express his gratitude but also to personally thank those whose expertise saved his life that fateful morning. The event concluded for the dispatchers who often operate backstage, curious about the aftermath of the calls they handle.

Importance of Neighbors Helping Neighbors

Dispatcher Katie Riely Wilson was on duty at the Brazos County 911 Dispatch Center that morning. Expressing her feelings, Wilson, Lt. Jason Loyd, and Travis Lull of the South Brazos County Fire Department reiterated the significance of neighbors assisting neighbors during crises. Lull, Wooten’s neighbor, and Loyd, his church fellow, both felt the gravity of the situation but did not let it deter them.

Word of Appreciation

“I just wanted to give them a big thank you”, said Wooten, expressing his gratitude. “I certainly appreciate the expertise, the workmanship that they do.”

Contact

To learn more about stories like this or to suggest potential investigative work for reporter Donnie Tuggle, he can be reached at Donnie.Tuggle@KBTX.com or via the provided submission form.