The heartbreaking incident at the Tracey Wyatt Recreation Complex has sparked concerns about potential delays in emergency response. Amanda Sylvester, a 15-year-old athlete, tragically lost her life after collapsing during a volleyball practice at the facility in College Park.

On December 5, 2024, 15-year-old Amanda Sylvester collapsed during warm-ups with her volleyball team, the Dream Chasers Volleyball Club. Emergency responders from the College Park Fire Department and other services provided immediate care, and Amanda was reportedly conscious at the time.

However, concerns have been raised about delays in ambulance response, as an ambulance from Grady Emergency Medical Services (EMS) reportedly failed to arrive for over an hour despite multiple calls. Ultimately, Amanda’s mother transported her to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, where she suffered cardiac failure. Although doctors managed to briefly revive her, Amanda tragically passed away shortly after.

Catherine Murray, of the Dream Chasers Volleyball Club, called the delay in ambulance response “unacceptable,” stating, “We are entrusted with the care of these precious lives, and it’s our responsibility to ensure their safety. We need a better network and system in place to protect these kids.”

Dr. Emmanuel Adediran, College Park’s city manager, emphasized that all health emergency protocols were followed by the Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department, College Park Fire Rescue, and the volleyball club’s coaches, parents, and staff. Expressing his sorrow over the tragedy, he remarked, “We are all heartbroken by this devastating loss of life at such a young age.”

City officials have launched an investigation into the failure of the ambulance to respond and provide necessary trauma care and transportation. In a statement of condolence, they expressed, “Our deepest and heartfelt sympathies are with the young woman’s family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time.

Grady EMS explained in a statement that the initial call was classified as low severity and handled by a College Park Fire unit equipped to provide medical care and transport. Following an update, the call’s priority was elevated, and a Grady EMS unit was dispatched.

The statement continued, “However, while our unit was en route, College Park Fire advised that additional EMS support was no longer required as the patient had been transported to the hospital by a personal vehicle.

A 2022 investigation revealed that Grady EMS response times for critical calls averaged between 22 and 29 minutes, while non-urgent calls often took 46 to 89 minutes.

In 2023, a former College Park Fire Department chief emphasized that outdated regulations governing ambulance services significantly contribute to these delays. These regulations can leave paramedics and patients, like Amanda Sylvester, waiting as long as an hour for state-authorized transport from Grady EMS.

The Dream Chasers Volleyball Club is mourning the loss of their teammate and friend, whom they described as “sweet” and full of life. They shared a heartfelt tribute, saying, “Amanda was a bright light, not just in our gym, but in the lives of everyone she touched. We were honored to have known such an incredible young spirit. This is personal. Join us in our fight for Justice for Amanda. #justiceforAmanda.”

The team also launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Sylvester’s family during this challenging time. In their post, they wrote, “Amanda was more than a player—she was family to us. When she needed help the most, it didn’t come. We are committed to making sure her story is heard and standing in the gap for her. Her loss will not be in vain.

The funds collected will be used to give Amanda Sylvester a fitting farewell, covering legal fees, funeral expenses, and any other needs her family may have during this period of mourning.

“Together, we can honor Amanda’s memory and strive to ensure that no other young athlete or family experiences such a heartbreaking loss. Thank you for standing with us in this challenging time,” the club shared.

As the volleyball team plans to honor their friend’s memory, Grady EMS has vowed to address concerns regarding their emergency response times. The agency reiterated its dedication to community safety and emphasized its commitment to working with partner organizations to ensure resources are effectively deployed to meet the specific needs of each situation.