I am writing to commend Riverside Regional Medical Center Nurse Casey Frye for the assistance she provided the Newport News Police Captain during a vehicle crash she witnessed while on her way to work.
Captain T heard a radio transmission regarding a single-vehicle crash involving a red car. The accident, according to the 911 caller, took place on Warwick Boulevard underneath the Mercury Boulevard overpass. Per the caller, the driver of the vehicle was wearing an oxygen mask.
Captain T arrived at the scene shortly after hearing the radio transmission. Upon his arrival, he located the crash exactly where the caller reported it. It appeared that the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle struck the divider that separates the north and southbound travel lanes of Warwick Boulevard. Although the damage to the vehicle did not appear to be significant, Captain T discovered the driver in an unconscious state.
Located in the front passenger seat, half in and half out of the vehicle, was an off-duty Riverside Regional Medical Center Nurse. The registered nurse, later identified as Casey Frye, was aiding the elderly male driver. Captain T asked Nurse Frye if the driver was breathing and she responded in the affirmative; however, the driver's breathing was agonal. Captain T also learned that the nurse not only discovered the collision but also placed the vehicle transmission shifter in 'park' upon discovering the car was in 'drive'. Nurse Frye's quick thinking and foresight may have prevented the vehicle from subsequently rolling forward and striking a passing motorist.
Nurse Frye remained with the elderly driver and provided Captain T regular updates regarding the male's condition so that he could transmit the information to the responding medics via the 911 dispatcher. Captain T informed the 911 dispatcher of medical facts such as the male's breathing, pulse, and non-responsiveness to chest rubs, as well as the remaining low level of oxygen inside the tank. Nurse Frye continued to monitor the driver's breathing and pulse until the medics arrived at the scene and took over the care of the driver.
Please know that Nurse Frye remained composed and professional during her contact with the driver. Captain T, a 27-year law enforcement veteran, described Nurse Frye as an asset to the medical profession and the Riverside organization. Nurse Casey Frye displayed the qualities of a leader, specifically selflessness, caring, and compassion when she elected to stop her vehicle and render aid to a driver in distress. For this, I am genuinely grateful.