09/03/2026
Congratulations to C Shift Ladder 845 and Engine 843 Captain. Whelan, Engineer Pisani, FF Zuege, Captain Preston, Eng. Larrick, Ff Mullenaux & Chief DeMoss. They were recognized by the San Tan Valley Town Council last night for the following;
On July 30 at 0840 hours, Ladder 845 (Whelan, Pisani, Zuege) and AP598 (Lee, Lawrence) responded to a report of a newborn experiencing shoulder dystocia during an active home birth. Recognizing the complexity of the incident, Ladder 845 requested Engine 843 (Preston, Larrick, Mullenaux) for additional assistance and requested notification of Battalion Chief 840 (Demoss).
Upon arrival, Ladder 845 and AP598 encountered a newborn who had just cleared the birth canal and was in cardiac arrest. The infant was pulseless and apneic. Crews were immediately confronted with a chaotic scene involving numerous distraught family members and the emotional intensity of a life-threatening emergency.
Without hesitation, the crews rapidly assessed the patient, initiated high-quality neonatal CPR, clamped and cut the umbilical cord, and prepared the infant for immediate transport to Banner Ironwood Medical Center. Battalion Chief 840 joined AP598 during transport to assist with patient care. En route, crews established advanced airway management, obtained vascular access, administered appropriate medications in accordance with neonatal resuscitation guidelines, coordinated seamlessly as a team, and provided timely communication to the receiving hospital to ensure continuity of care.
As Ladder 845 and AP598 prepared for transport, Engine 843 and AP596 (Fergeson, Snyder) entered the residence and assumed care of the mother, ensuring she received prompt assessment, treatment, and transport while allowing the neonatal resuscitation effort to continue uninterrupted.
Despite the extraordinary emotional and clinical challenges presented by this incident, every member involved demonstrated exceptional composure, clinical excellence, teamwork, and professionalism. Through their coordinated efforts, the crews achieved return of spontaneous circulation prior to arrival at the hospital, giving the newborn the best possible opportunity for survival and recovery. The newborn is expected to make a full recovery, and the mother remained stable throughout her care.
The actions of the members of Ladder 845, AP598, Engine 843, AP596, and Battalion Chief 840 exemplify the highest standards of the fire service and emergency medical care. Their compassion, decisive actions, and unwavering commitment to excellence under extraordinary circumstances are worthy of formal recognition. Their performance reflects great credit upon themselves, the San Tan Valley community, and Rural Metro Fire Department.
