** 2016 Alabama air ambulance crash due to pilot error: NTSB
** New York street renamed after slain FDNY EMT
UNITED STATES NEWS
** A Haynes Ambulance medical chopper crash in 2016 in southern Alabama likely resulted from pilot error. That is the word from WSFA (June 15) which quoted from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) final report into the matter. According to the tome, the pilot suffered spatial disorientation while flying at night due to performing visual flight rules. The report also said the pilot ignored deteriorating weather conditions because of pressure from higher ups and inadequate oversight by the operational control center. Medic Jason Snipes, flight nurse Stacey Cernadas, pilot Chad Hammond, and patient Zach Strickland all perished in the March 26, 2016 mishap.
** New York City officials have renamed a street in honor of slain Fire Department of New York (FDNY) EMT Yadira Arroyo. CBS New York (Reena Roy/June 15) said a ceremony recognizing the commendation was held Friday. According to the news site, Boston Road near E 169th Street was selected to bear Arroyo’s name. A memorial plaque was also given to Arroyo’s mother and one will be placed on the building wall where Arroyo used to work. Arroyo died last year after a man who was high on drugs got behind the wheel of her ambulance and ran her over. An EMS veteran in the city for 14 years, she left 5 children behind. Arroyo’s accused killer, meanwhile, continues to try to play the insanity card. In April, a court appointed psychiatrist said he was not fit to stand trial.
