Penn Hills paramedic dies after ambulance crash in Shadyside

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- A first responder has died following a serious crash in Pittsburgh's Shadyside neighborhood.

Penn Hills EMS identified the first responder as Nicholas Theofilis. He worked with Penn Hills EMS (Station 380). 

The crash occurred just after 11 p.m. at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Morewood Avenue, involving a car and a Penn Hills EMS ambulance. 

Pittsburgh Public Safety officials say the driver of the ambulance was in cardiac arrest when medics arrived at the scene. He was taken to a nearby hospital in life-threatening condition. He died at the hospital.

The other occupant in the ambulance was taken to the hospital in stable condition and suffered head trauma, cuts to his face and a possible concussion. There were no patients inside the ambulance at the time of the crash.

The driver of the car was also taken to the hospital in stable condition. 

Numerous EMS and public safety agencies shared condolences throughout the night on social media pages.

"This tragic incident underscores the dangers first responders face each and every day on the job," Pittsburgh Public Safety Director Lee Schmidt said in a statement. "No call is an ordinary call and paramedics, police, and firefighters put the lives of strangers ahead of their own as they serve their fellow residents without question or hesitation. Pittsburgh Public Safety supports Penn Hills EMS during this extremely difficult time."

Pittsburgh EMS Chief Ronald Romano said the loss "hits hard." 

"We are reminded of the fragility of life on a daily basis and this tragedy is no exception. We stand with Penn Hills EMS and offer our heartfelt sympathies and ongoing support as the department mourns one of its own," Romano said. 

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

In:
• Multi-Vehicle Crash
• Ambulance crash
• Pittsburgh