Heroic Act: Off-Duty Firefighter Aids in Saving Teen’s Life on I-30

MESQUITE, Texas – A young boy’s life was saved thanks to the quick actions of an off-duty paramedic during a critical moment on Interstate 30. The incident involved 13-year-old Jose Mesa, who faced a life-threatening situation following a bicycle accident in front of his home.

Accident and Emergency Response

The event occurred last Friday when Jose was struck by a pickup truck while riding his bike home on Dumont Drive. His mother, Brenda Mesa, quickly recognized the severity of her son’s injuries. “I seen he had the head injury, and I didn’t want him to move anymore. So, I held on to him until the paramedics got here,” she recounted.

Paramedics Justin McConnaughy and Jack London were dispatched to the scene and transported Jose to Children’s Medical Center amidst heavy traffic. Approximately ten minutes into their journey, Jose experienced a seizure, leading to vomiting and choking. In a state of urgency, London called out for McConnaughy to pull over.

A Heroic Intervention

At this crucial moment, off-duty Irving firefighter Josh Sanchez was on his way to dinner with his wife when he noticed the ambulance pulling over on the highway. Recognizing the unusual situation, he instinctively stopped to assist. “Typically, an ambulance won’t stop in the middle of the highway when they’re running lights and sirens unless they really need help,” Sanchez explained.

After knocking on the ambulance door, Sanchez introduced himself and offered his help. “I don’t even know if I introduced my name to them. I just told them, ‘Firefighter paramedic from Irving. Ya’ll need some help?’” he said. The Mesquite crew quickly accepted Sanchez’s assistance, and he offered to drive the ambulance while McConnaughy and London tended to Jose’s critical condition.

Road to Recovery

Thanks to their swift actions, the paramedics were able to provide essential medical care en route to the hospital. Jose’s mother expressed her gratitude, believing that Sanchez, McConnaughy, and London were instrumental in saving her son’s life. “My son had stopped breathing. He wasn’t breathing, and those seconds counted so much. They were able to get him there quickly and get him intubated so he could start getting oxygen to his brain,” Brenda shared.

Jose was initially placed in a medically induced coma due to the severity of his injuries but is now on the mend and recovering at home. “I do not remember what happened. I only remember waking up in the hospital. I thought I was dreaming,” Jose stated, now thankful for his second chance.

Reflections on the Incident

The teamwork displayed during this critical incident has left a lasting impact on all involved. London remarked on the miraculous nature of the events, saying, “It was one of those miraculous things that happened. Couldn’t have planned it myself.” Sanchez, reflecting on the experience, felt privileged to assist, stating, “I was glad the medics from Mesquite allowed me to help.”

Brenda concluded, “I feel like God had his hand in all this because to me he’s an angel who came out of nowhere and saved my son’s life. And for that, I will forever be grateful.”