City Council honors heroes for life-saving actions during medical emergency

The Carmel City Council meeting on July 7, 2025, highlighted significant community engagement and recognition of heroic actions by citizens and city officials. The meeting began with an invocation, expressing gratitude for the nation, state, and city, and concluded with a pledge of allegiance led by the deputy mayor.

A key focus of the meeting was the recognition of outstanding citizens and city employees for their life-saving efforts during a medical emergency at the Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival on May 4, 2025. During the event, a participant, Jazz Rountree, suffered a life-threatening medical emergency. Ahmad Madib, a registered nurse, and Dr. Anita Joshi, a city councilor, quickly responded to the situation, administering CPR and assessing Rountree's condition.

Carmel Police Department Officer Brandon Owens, who was on patrol at the festival, also played a crucial role. He retrieved an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and began chest compressions after identifying Rountree was in cardiac arrest. Sergeant Matt Kinsley, a certified medic, arrived shortly after to assist Owens until emergency medical services took over.

Due to their swift actions, Rountree regained a pulse and was later released from the hospital. In recognition of their bravery, the council presented commendation awards to Madib and Dr. Joshi, as well as life-saving awards to Officer Owens and Sergeant Kinsley.

The meeting underscored the importance of community and the dedication of local officials and citizens in ensuring public safety. The council expressed gratitude for the heroic efforts that ultimately saved a life, reinforcing the spirit of cooperation and service within the Carmel community.