Del City police officers honored for lifesaving response after Interstate 40 crash

On July 21, 2025, the Del City City Council recognized two Del City Police Department officers for lifesaving actions following a May 9 vehicle crash on Interstate 40. Officers Matthew Lisenby and Aaron O’Dell received a life‑saving award during the council meeting after their on‑scene treatment helped stabilize a driver who later required vascular surgery.

The incident occurred just after midnight on May 9. According to the presentation read into the record by department representatives, officers arrived to find a vehicle engulfed in flames and the driver suffering a life‑threatening arterial bleed to the neck. The officers identified the nature of the injuries, applied direct pressure to control the bleeding, and established a patent airway using a nasal pharyngeal airway until fire and emergency medical services arrived. The injured person was transported to a level‑1 trauma hospital for immediate vascular surgery.

Council members opened the presentation by unanimous motion, and the mayor joined the podium to present the award. The individual who was saved was introduced at the meeting as Reagan; city staff said they wanted the person present so officers could see the outcome of their care. The council recorded applause and words of appreciation during the presentation.

Why it matters: The presentation highlights first‑responder training and on‑scene medical care administered by patrol officers in situations where immediate action can affect survival before EMS arrival. The city formally recognized the officers’ actions as “keeping with the highest traditions” of the Del City Police Department.

Procedural note: The motion to open the presentation was made, seconded and approved by a unanimous voice vote recorded in the meeting transcript. The council then recessed to other agenda items after the presentation.