Skip to navigation Skip to content
click here to view our 'Why' videos

Utah TSO Saves Passenger's Life

News & Happenings

February 18, 2008

Photo of TSO Staci Johnson (right), joined by Firefighter Rio Downs and Assistant Airport Manager Todd Woffinden, who were also on the scene.
TSO Staci Johnson (right), joined by
Firefighter Rio Downs and Assistant
Airport Manager Todd Woffinden, who
were also on the scene.

With time precious, Transportation Security Officer Staci Johnson worked fast to help an elderly passenger who collapsed and was semi-conscious at Wendover (Utah) Municipal Airport.

Relying on her 11 years as an emergency medical technician and firefighter, Johnson instructed the passenger to remain still as she took his vitals. She spoke with the man's wife and was preparing his medical history as emergency personnel arrived.

Suddenly, Johnson noticed a drop in the passenger's blood pressure, and a portable electrocardiogram detected an irregular heartbeat. Immediately, she and the airport's first responders coordinated with airline and emergency services for quick transport to the nearest emergency medical facility in Salt Lake City, about 80 miles away. Three days later, the man recovered.

First responders and others who witnessed the incident complimented Johnson for "taking control of the situation." "We are thrilled to have the credentials, accomplishments and skills of Staci Johnson on staff here at Wendover and we are proud of her cool-headed response in this difficult situation," said Supervisory TSO Kirk Harrison.