Buncombe County Recognizes Paramedics Who Saved A Nine-Year-Old’s Life

This week, Three Buncombe County paramedics were honored for their roll in an emergency call that save the life a nine-year-old. Paramedics Archie Steel and Faith Crawford, and Community Paramedic Matt Conlin, were surprised and delighted to receive Mission Hospital’s Call of the Quarter Award. The award recognizes first responders who show outstanding skills, teamwork, and professionalism during a crisis.  

“We are proud of the first responders and community members who stepped up to save a life that day. The actions by the lifeguard and nurse underscores the importance for community members to get trained in basic first aid, including CPR,” said Taylor Jones, Emergency Medical Services Director. “Paramedics provide essential, life-saving support to our community in challenging circumstances. On this occasion, our community came together to save a life, and that is what makes us One Buncombe.” 

The call came in on July 21, 2025, to Black Mountain Pool, where nine-year-old Saya was drowning. Pool Lifeguard Angelina Luu quickly rescued Saya by pulling her out of the water. A pediatric nurse who was at the pool assisted with CPR which led to a successful chain of survival for Saya. Black Mountain Fire Department and Buncombe County EMS arrived on scene, providing exemplary care. Earlier this year, the paramedics, lifeguard, and fire department staff who assisted in this call received their award with Saya, her little brother, and mom in attendance.