First responders are trained to handle life or death situations and on May 12 this year officers with the Springville Police Department and Fire Department used that training to save the lives of a mother and her daughter.

At a Springville City Council meeting held on August 6, they were recognized for their efforts. Senator Jim McClendon, District 11, Springville Mayor William “Butch” Isley, and Springville City Council Members recognized police officers Michael Long and Jamie Nolan, Newman Davis, Anthony Kormolis, and fireman Robert Crawford.

Officers Nolin and Long were nominated for the Alabama Lifesaver Award and Alabama Police Officer of the Year. 

Officer Long responded to a dispatch on May 12 for a vehicle accident on I-59 near Springville. The car wrecked off the interstate and overturned in a waist-high deep creek near an overpass. Officer Long was near the Springville Walmart and stated that his response time was just a few minutes. When Officer Long arrived a young girl, Kayden Russell, who was riding with her mother was found trapped underneath the vehicle and unresponsive. She was not breathing and had turned blue from lack of oxygen. Officer Long was able to free Kayden and administered CPR. Officer Nolin was on the scene quickly after Officer Long and assisted in the rescue. Kayden’s mother was also rescued from the vehicle and later released from the hospital with minor injuries.

Officer Long gives all the credit to God saying, “I thank God for putting me in a place so close to do my job.”

Springville Fire Department arrived shortly on the scene and Kayden was transported to the hospital where she made a full recovery.

The resolution from the Senate of Alabama written by Senator McClendon states, “Officer Mike Long demonstrated deft thinking, expertise, and immense courage in saving the lives; he is a worthy exemplar of those brave individuals who risk their own lives to uphold the highest ideals of law and safeguard lives; he is truly deserving of special recognition and praise.”

“Be it resolved by the Senate of the Legislature of Alabama, that Officer Mike Long is highly honored and commended, and this resolution is offered to him in deepest admiration and appreciation for his heroic efforts, as well with sincerest best wishes for continued success in all future endeavors.”

Officer Long was surprised by the recognition and awards. He says, “This has been the highlight of my career. I am so glad that she (Kayden) is alive. She is the superhero for surviving.”

Kayden Russell was also present at the meeting to thank the officers that saved her life.