05/17/2025 - CALL AUDIO - Medical Call Turns to CO Poisoning Multiple First Responders flown to STC

SM News Net Article: https://smnewsnet.com/archives/547362...

On Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 3:58 a.m., a resident in the 22000 block of Ventura Way in California, Maryland, called 911 reporting difficulty breathing. This dispatched one ambulance, one medic unit, and the fire department to the scene.

Lexington Park Volunteer Rescue Squad Ambulance 389, staffed by two personnel, responded alongside a medic unit and four firefighters from the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department on Rescue Engine 92. They arrived on scene around 4:04 a.m.

At approximately 4:21 a.m., first responders began experiencing symptoms of distress. Firefighters used a gas meter, which detected carbon monoxide levels of 500 parts per million (ppm) inside the residence. They requested the incident be upgraded, prompting the dispatch of additional firefighters and emergency medical personnel.

Despite exhibiting symptoms, firefighters began evacuating the residence along with nearby homes and reported that CPR was in progress on an adult male patient. During further investigation of the home, responders discovered a running vehicle inside a closed garage. As additional medical personnel arrived, multiple medevac helicopters were requested due to the worsening condition of several first responders.

Maryland State Police Aviation Command responded with Trooper 2, Trooper 4, and Trooper 7, which landed nearby. The helicopters transported four firefighters from the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department and both EMTs to area trauma centers for hyperbaric chamber treatment, further evaluation, or as a precaution.

In addition to the six first responders airlifted, one St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Deputy, one Bay District Volunteer Firefighter, and one civilian were transported to a local hospital for further evaluation and precautionary care.

All nearby residents and additional first responders were evaluated on-site. Eight firefighters, four children, and five adults declined transport or did not require treatment.

After over 30 minutes of CPR, the adult male victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Maryland State Police, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, and other agencies responded to assist with the ongoing investigation. Fire and rescue personnel from St. Mary’s, Calvert, Charles, and Prince George’s Counties also responded after a Mass Casualty Incident was declared.

Further updates will be provided as they become available.