WGVA 106.3FM 1240AMMix 98.5101.7 The WallWFLR Finger Lakes Country Classic Hits 99.3The Lake 100.1/104.5 WAUB 96.3FM 1590AM

Steuben County Highlights First Responders Life Saving Teamwork

SHARE NOW

A powerful example of teamwork and professionalism recently unfolded in Steuben County, where the combined efforts of emergency responders saved a life under extraordinarily challenging circumstances.

On the night of January 9th, Steuben County EMS, Bath Police, Bath Ambulance, and Steuben County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a call in the Village of Bath for an unresponsive patient. As emergency medical personnel arrived on the scene, the situation escalated to a cardiac arrest. Thanks to immediate CPR instructions from a Steuben County 911 Dispatcher and swift action by all agencies involved, a series of life-saving interventions—including the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and multiple shocks—helped restore a pulse before the patient was transported to Ira Davenport Hospital. During transport, the patient rearrested but ultimately regained a pulse upon arrival at the hospital, where they were airlifted to an intensive care unit at Arnot Ogden Medical Center. As of the end of February 2025, the patient is expected to make a full recovery. All involved received prestigious challenge coins from the Southern Tier Regional EMS Council and certificates of recognition before the County Public Safety and Corrections Committee in the legislative chambers on March 3rd.

Sheriff James L. Allard praised the unified efforts of all involved, stating, “This incredible outcome is a testament to the skill, dedication, and compassion of the first responders who worked tirelessly to save a life. Their actions reflect the very best of our community’s public servants. The swift and coordinated teamwork of law enforcement, EMS, and dispatch personnel truly made the difference in this situation.”

Tim Marshall, Director of Public Safety, also expressed gratitude for the teamwork demonstrated during the call. “What transpired that night is a perfect example of how each person involved—whether in dispatch, law enforcement, EMS, or the fire department—plays a crucial role in saving lives. The professionalism and determination of all those who responded are nothing short of remarkable. We are fortunate to have such dedicated and capable teams working in Steuben County.”

The patient’s survival can be attributed to the rapid response and care provided by all agencies involved. From the Dispatchers’ calm and clear instructions, the life-saving skills of Steuben County Deputies Jeff Robinson and Brent Nadjadi, the coordination of Bath Police Officers Patrolman Zawko and Klock, and the actions of Steuben County Paramedic Mike VonBevern, Bath Ambulance EMT Erickson, and EMT Student Gay all combined to save a life.

In addition to this heroic effort, Sheriff Allard is proud to recognize and issue commendations to several deputies for their exceptional service:

• Deputy Sheena Schafer: For her professionalism and compassion in handling critical situations, including a potential threat at the Arkport School District (Feb 4, 2025) and a domestic disturbance involving a child (Feb 6, 2025).
• Deputy Tom Nybeck and Deputy Bryce Bush: For their teamwork and de-escalation skills in diffusing an attempted suicide at the Steuben County Jail (Feb 2, 2025).
• Corrections Sergeants Angelo Sciotti and Kris Kester: For their quick response and life-saving actions in preventing a suicide attempt at the Steuben County Jail (Jan 15, 2025).
• Deputies Jeff Robinson and Brent Nadjadi: For their exceptional lifesaving actions during a medical emergency in the Village of Bath (Jan 10, 2025).
• Deputies Ryan Andrews and Brandon Owen: For their unwavering determination and teamwork in attempting to save a life during a cardiac arrest situation in the Town of Woodhull (Dec 13, 2024).
Sheriff Allard concluded, “These incidents underscore the true spirit of community and the unwavering commitment of our first responders. These individuals exemplify the values of professionalism, integrity, leadership, and compassion that we strive to uphold every day.”
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE!  Sign up by clicking here
Get the top stories on your radio 24/7 on Finger Lakes News Radio 96.3 and 1590, WAUB and 106.3 and 1240, WGVA, and on Finger Lakes Country, 96.1/96.9/101.9/1570 WFLR.