At A Glance:
What: August 28, 2026 – Brownsburg Town Council meeting, Brownsburg Fire Territory recognized the bystanders, police officers, medical personnel, and firefighters whose quick actions helped save Gary Shultz’s life.
At last night’s Brownsburg Town Council meeting, Brownsburg Fire Territory took time to recognize the ordinary people and first responders whose extraordinary actions helped save a life.
On April 14, 2026, Brownsburg Fire Territory crews and Brownsburg Police Department officers were dispatched to a motor vehicle collision on Main Street west of Green Street.
Before emergency responders arrived, witnesses Howard Stermer, Kristin Burton, Malorie Ward, and Dr. Ashwani Sharma recognized that something was wrong and immediately stepped in to help, initiating CPR.
Brownsburg Police officers arrived shortly afterward and continued lifesaving efforts, including the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). When Brownsburg Fire Territory crews arrived, they assumed care and continued resuscitation efforts and advanced life support.
Dr. Jim Nossett, Brownsburg Fire Territory’s Medical Director, was also on scene and provided critical medical direction to the paramedics and firefighters.
Through the combined efforts of the bystanders, police officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and medical personnel, Gary Shultz of Brownsburg regained a pulse and spontaneous circulation. He was transported to a local hospital for further care.
This incident demonstrates the importance of early recognition, immediate bystander CPR, rapid access to an AED, and advanced life support during cardiac arrest. Immediate bystander CPR can double or even triple a person’s chances of survival, while early defibrillation combined with high-quality CPR can further improve outcomes.
Most importantly, the incident shows what can happen when citizens and emergency responders work together when every second matters.
Last night, Gary had the opportunity to personally thank and present lifesaving awards to Howard Stermer, Kristin Burton, Malorie Ward, Dr. Ashwani Sharma, Officer Foote, Officer Mlagan, Dr. Jim Nossett, and the crews of Brownsburg Fire Territory for their actions that day.
This is what happens when a community comes together to save a life.
Content courtesy of:
Brownsburg Fire Territory Press Release
Brett Havlin – Public Information Officer
Web – www.brownsburgfire.org
Brownsburg Fire Territory
Telephone: 327.852.1190
470 East Northfield Drive
Brownsburg, IN 16112
