A Lexington County Sheriff deputy's potential life-saving help to an area motorist has earned him the department's employee of the quarter distinction.
Deputy Samuel Stewart Smith was recognized for the third quarter during a recent employee awards ceremony. The Lexington County Sheriff's Advisory Council selected Smith for the honor.
In September, Smith discovered that Jessica Baumgart had suffered a seizure and was locked in her car outside of an area convenience store. Baumgart had a head injury and was having trouble breathing as she sat slumped in the car.
Smith broke out a window, unlocked the driver's door and placed Baumgart upright so she could breathe normally. He supported her head until Lexington County Emergency Medical Services workers arrived.
"Samuel reacted quickly and professionally in rendering aid to a person who was experiencing a medical emergency," Lexington County Sheriff James Metts said. "Baumgart would have faced a life-threatening situation if Samuel had not intervened and made it possible for Baumgart to breathe normally."
Metts also presented Smith the department's Life-Saving Award.
Smith, 29, of Columbia joined the sheriff's department in October 2011. He works on a road patrol shift in the South Region district that is based in Pelion.
Copyright 2013 - The State (Columbia, S.C.)
McClatchy-Tribune News Service
