'A Miracle': New 911 Dispatch Technology Saves Man's Life

October 18, 2024

Today's good news story comes from San Antonio, Texas.

On August 4, a regular day nearly turned tragic for Keith Young, whose heart suddenly stopped at home.

"I was upstairs about to take a shower when I felt something was wrong. I started pounding on the floor," Keith recalled. "By the time my wife got to me, I could barely breathe. Then everything went black, and when I woke up, I was in the hospital."

Keith’s wife, Rachel Young, who has been by his side for 41 years, was terrified as she watched her husband collapse. She immediately called 911, fearing the worst. But this time, a breakthrough in emergency response technology changed everything.

Rachel received a text message from the dispatcher, Randy Ruston of SAFD communications, with a link to a live video chat. When she opened it, Randy could see Keith’s condition in real-time.

"It gives us access to their microphone and camera," Randy explained to KENS 5. "We can assess things like their heart rate, breathing, and even their skin tone—all critical for determining how urgent the situation is."

Randy then guided Rachel through CPR, step by step, while waiting for paramedics to arrive. Thanks to the new technology and Rachel’s quick action, Keith was rushed to the hospital in critical condition but survived the ordeal.

Now, Keith is back home, fully recovering, and feeling grateful. Rachel calls it "a miracle."

On Thursday, KENS 5 covered an emotional reunion between Randy and the Youngs. Check out the video below!