Automatic External Defibrillator Used

On Thursday, October 25, William Spangler, a 78 year old NASCAR fan from Indianapolis arrived at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport for a weekend of racing at Phoenix International Raceway. Unfortunately, in baggage claim at Terminal 2, Mr. Spangler suffered a heart attack. His heart stopped beating and he was not breathing.

Two bystanders began CPR and four Phoenix Police Officers were able to use their training and equipment to save Mr. Spangler. Officers Bob Remsik, John Dee, Russ Rader and Ron Perreira all assisted in the life-saving effort. The AED advised one shock and rescue breathing was continued until Phoenix Fire arrived. The man was taken to Phoenix St. Luke's Hospital. He was released from the hospital and will be returning to the East Coast to recuperate. He is extremely grateful for the officers, firefighters and the airport's response and wants to thank them publicly.

The City of Phoenix Aviation Department purchased 60 Automatic External Defibrillators to be used at Sky Harbor Airport in case of heart emergencies. To date, more than 300 Aviation and Phoenix Police Airport Bureau employees have received training in CPR and the use of AED's. This is the second time a life has been saved since the units installation in December 2000.