Kalamazoo Umpire Survives Cardiac Arrest on Field

Randy Pack returned to the softball field less than three weeks after suffering cardiac arrest during a game.

Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Accidents

Kalamazoo Umpire Survives Cardiac Arrest on Field

Umpire Randy Pack experienced a life-threatening cardiac arrest on a Kalamazoo softball field on October 2, 2026. Following emergency intervention, Pack has successfully returned to officiating.

Why it matters

The survival of Pack highlights the critical importance of immediate intervention and the availability of automated external defibrillators in public spaces. His swift recovery demonstrates the potential for positive outcomes even after severe cardiac events when life-saving protocols are followed.

Randy Pack received 55 minutes of CPR and nine shocks from an AED device after collapsing on Field Three. He survived without suffering memory loss or speech damage following the incident.

The players

Randy Pack

Randy Pack is a local umpire who officiates games in the Kalamazoo and Portage area.

The details

After his heart stopped on October 2, a substitute player initiated CPR to keep Pack alive until emergency care could be provided. He has since made a full recovery, notably returning to the field for a championship game just 20 days after the event.

October 2, 2026: Randy Pack suffered cardiac arrest at Field Three.
October 22, 2026: Pack returned to officiate a championship softball game.

Legal Context

The incident highlights the life-saving impact of the American Heart Association's Chain of Survival protocols in public recreation settings. Successful recoveries in high-intensity environments emphasize the necessity of maintaining accessible emergency equipment at community athletic facilities.

The survival of an official during a local game serves as a stark reminder for residents to ensure they are trained in basic life support and CPR. The event may prompt local organizers to review emergency action plans and the proximity of AED devices at city-owned sports complexes.

The takeaway

This case underscores that quick action by bystanders using available technology can prevent tragedy in public spaces. Keeping emergency skills current remains the most effective way for community members to prepare for unexpected medical emergencies.