Law Enforcement and Quick-thinking Employees Help Save Postal Supervisor’s Life

One moment, it was a routine meeting between supervisor Brian Flanagan, carrier Brandi Rowse, and clerk Cynthia Petty at the Camp Verde Post Office. The next, Brian was unresponsive and not breathing at his desk.

The employees acted fast. Cynthia called for 911 and together, she and Brandi safely moved Brian on the floor and began CPR. A bystander—a former medical dispatcher who happened to be in line at the post office—also jumped in to assist until first responders arrived.

Fortunately, Deputy Jacob Zeid and Deputy Justin Nichols were nearby and had an ZOLL Powerheart G5 AED in their vehicle. Upon arrival, Deputy Zeid took over chest compressions while an employee assisted removing Brian’s shirt so Deputy Nichols could apply the AED pads. After a shock from the AED was administered, Brian began to breath on his own again.

The quick actions of so many people helped with the overall outcome.

— Brian Flanagan, SCA survivor

“The quick actions of so many people helped with the overall outcome.” Brian Flanagan said. “Most of all, having Deputy Zeid’s ability to assess the situation and utilize the defibrillator to save my life.”

Thanks to the quick-thinking employees, fast response from nearby officers, and the availability of an AED, Brian had a positive outcome. Incredibly, he even returned to work during the busy holiday season-something that wouldn’t have been possible without the lifesaving response that day.