Press Release

Date:   April 17, 2008

To:       Media

From:   Margie Puckett, Director Southern Oregon Regional Communications (9-1-1)

On Thursday April 10^th 2008, Southern Oregon Regional Communications Dispatcher Sally Brown answered a 9-1-1 line, as always, unaware of what would come next.  All 9-1-1 calls are important, but some surprise you more than others.  The call started normally, with a 14 year old telling her his mother was having a medical issue, and he was unsure exactly where he was.  As Sally began the usual series of questions, 14 year old Jase Deemer replied “oh my God, I think I am gonna crash!”  It was at this point the dispatcher realized the vehicle was still traveling and Jase was the passenger in an out of control vehicle as it was quickly approaching a sharp curve.

Jase maintained his composure and was able to climb over the console in his mothers Kia to stop the car.  He remained calm and polite talking to the dispatcher, while keeping his foot on the brake, all the while reassuring his mother. 

The dispatcher instructed him to shut the car off, and put the emergency brake on.  As his mother began to regain consciousness, she was confused and tried to start driving again.  Jase continually reassured his mother and kept her from driving.  Through all of this stress, Jase amazingly stayed calm, and in constant communication with the Dispatcher, allowing her to use maps and walk him through the route they took, enabling her to guide rescue units to Jase and his mother. 

Jase Deemer is a hero, not only to his mother, but to all of us that have heard the call.  At the age of 14, he had the presence of mind to remain calm, call 9-1-1, and stop the car, all while comforting his mother with the words “I love you mom”.  Jase is clearly an amazing individual.  “In 17 years, I am not sure I have ever been more impressed by a caller, if not for Jase remaining calm and listening to Sally’s instructions, the outcome could have been devastating”.

Jackson County Commissioners, the Sheriff, and Dispatcher Sally Brown will present Jase with an award on April 23rd at 9:30 am at the County Commissioners meeting , in the auditorium at 10 S. Oakdale in Medford.