December 28, 2003 1930hrs:
For the second time in less than a month, Waldorf Firefighters and EMS personnel have responded to the aid of one of their own. Kristan Huntt, a member of EMS 12, was struck head-on by another vehicle while traveling northbound on Middletown Road. Kristan was enroute to Station 12 after dropping off a friend at her home. She was less a half mile from the station when the collision occurred.
Engine 121, Ambulance 128, and Ambulance 399 responded to the reported collision, not knowing at the time that Kristan was involved. Upon arrival, the crew from Engine 121 and Ambulance 128 began assessing the scene and found a major collision with one occupant lying in the roadway. The driver of the first vehicle had been ejected upon impact and the vehicle rolled on top of him. Bystanders lifted the vehicle off him prior to the arrival of Engine 121. It was at this point when the crew from Engine 121 found Kristan entrapped in the second vehicle. Sgt John Stewart immediately contacted communications and requested Chief 3, Dan Stevens, to respond to the scene. Chief 3A, Clark Embrey, was at Fire 3, heard the request for the Fire Chief, and also responded. Even though nothing was said over the radio, rumors spread rapidly that a member was involved in the situation. Rescue Squad 3 was special requested to the scene to assist with the extrication. Helicopters were also requested to transport both victims to the trauma center. Engine 121's crew removed the roof and doors of Kristan's vehicle with the Maverick and O-Cutter tools. Then, they setup two 30" Rams and pushed the dashboard off Kristan's legs. Rescue Squad 3 arrived as the driver of the first vehicle was being transported to the landing site. The Squad setup the light tower to illuminate the scene and assisted the extrication team with physically removing Kristan from her vehicle. Kristan's family arrived on the scene just as she was being rushed to the waiting ambulance. Ambulance 129 transported Kristan to the landing site at Westlake High School. Maryland State Police Helicopter Trooper 7 flew Kristan, along with her mother, to University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore. The driver of the other vehicle was flown to Prince Georges Hospital Center by Trooper 2. Chief 3 requested the Stress Debriefing Team to assist the members of Fire and EMS 12 as the reality and shock of the incident began to set in. The collision is under investigation by the Charles County Sheriffs Office Accident Reconstruction Team.
Kristan was admitted into the Shock Trauma Center in Serious but Stable condition. Her father, Fire Lieutenant Joey Huntt, and her immediate family were rushed to the hospital in Command 12. At this time, the extent of Kristan's injuries are not fully known, however none of them are listed as life-threatening at this time. Members from Station 12 have been traveling up to Baltimore to check on her and her family. More information on Kristan's condition will be posted as it becomes available.
On behalf of all the members of the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department, we wish Kristan a speedy recovery.
Original Dispatch: Engine 121, Ambulance 128, and Ambulance 399
Extircation Dispatch: Rescue Squad 3, Ambulance 129, Medic 1, Medic 21, Chief 3, Chief 3A, MSP Helicopters Trooper 2 and Trooper 7
Landing Site: Engine 122
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Update December 29, 2003 2130hrs: Kristan underwent surgery today to work on a compound fracture to her right tibula and fibula. Word back from Baltimore is that the surgery went well, however Kristan will have to undergo a second surgery on Wednesday to do more repair to her leg. Kristan's other injuries include a broken clavical, a broken handbone, a bruised lung, a bruised rib, and several cuts to the facial area. Kristan is reported to be in good spirits and her family continues to stand vigil with her. Kristan has requested that visitors are welcome for short visits. She can be found on the 6th floor at the Shock Trauma Center.
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Update Januaray 1, 2004 1930hrs: On Wednesday, Kristan underwent a second surgery to repair her right leg. Word back from Baltimore is that everything went extremely well and the doctors do not believe Kristan will require any more surgeries. There is a possibility Kristan may be released from Shock Trauma and allowed to return home as early as Friday. As soon as details are available, they will be posted here on the website.
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