Buckhannon Fire Department Commends All Involved in Lifesaving Response in December

Left to right: Rob Posey, Serenity Farrabee, BFD Capt. Brian Elmore, Florence Farrabee, Firefighter John Brugnoli, Paramedic Michele Shreves, Mayor Robbie Skinner, III, Emergency Manager & Paramedic Brian Shreves, and 911 Dispatcher Brandi Walton.

January 26, 2021

BUCKHANNON, WV: On Friday, the Buckhannon Fire Department led by Chief JB Kimble thanked and recognized several firefighters, EMS responders, and eleven-year-old Serenity Farrabee, who all aided in the successful response and resuscitation of an individual in cardiac arrest.

Local hero, Serenity Farrabee, waves during a ceremony at the Buckhannon Fire Hall, Friday, January 23, 2020.

On December 19, 2020, Buckhannon resident Rob Posey suffered a heart attack and was unresponsive. His granddaughter, Serenity Farrabee, immediately began chest compressions, while her grandmother, Florence Farrabee, called 911.

The Buckhannon Fire Department and Upshur County EMS’ swift response further led to a positive outcome for Posey. The individuals involved, Captain Brian Elmore, Firefighter John Brugnoli, Paramedics Michele and Brian Shreves, and Dispatcher Brandi Walton were all recognized during Friday’s event and received commendation by the Mayor of Buckhannon, Robbie Skinner.

Firefighter John Brugnoli, Buckhannon Mayor Robbie Skinner, III, Office of Emergency Management Director & Paramedic, Brian Shreves, Buckhannon Fire Department Captain Brian Elmore, Paramedic Michele Shreves, and 911 Dispatcher Brandi Walton.

Chief Kimble noted that CPR instruction in the public school system had been instrumental in Posey’s survival until first responders’ arrived, as his granddaughter knew how to perform CPR and was able to use those lifesaving skills to help save a family member’s life.

Buckhannon Fire Department Chief J.B. Kimble addresses the ceremony attendees.

Surrounded by his family, Posey thanked all involved and showed gratitude for the efficient response.

Resident Rob Posey thanks all involved in the response.

Thank you to all our first responders, to teachers who teach CPR as part of health education classes, and especially to Serenity Farrabee, a hero for bravely utilizing the skills she learned in school that day.

Media: Callie Cronin Sams, callie.csams@buckhannonwv.org or (304) 613-6610