Richmond Contractor Saves Runner After Cardiac Arrest
A local construction executive utilized recently renewed CPR skills to save a runner in April 2024.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Running
In April 2024, Samuel Jones experienced sudden cardiac arrest while running in Richmond. A construction supervisor, Jacob Dyer, performed life-saving CPR on the 33-year-old at William Fox Elementary School.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the critical importance of bystander intervention and CPR certification in responding to sudden cardiac emergencies in the community.
Samuel Jones was 33 years old at the time of his arrest and had been maintaining an 8-year running streak. He was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and now utilizes an implanted defibrillator.
The players
Samuel Jones
He is a runner who was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy after suffering sudden cardiac arrest.
Jacob Dyer
He is the vice president of Gulf Seaboard General Contractors who performed CPR on a runner in need.
American Heart Association
This national organization focuses on cardiovascular health and will host an awareness event in 2026.
The details
Jacob Dyer, the vice president of Gulf Seaboard General Contractors, initiated CPR after finding the victim unconscious and directed the runner's partner during the process. He had renewed his CPR certification just days before the emergency.
Timeline
February 11, 2022: A fire occurred at William Fox Elementary School.
April 2024: Samuel Jones experienced sudden cardiac arrest.
October 28, 2026: The American Heart Association will host a Hard Hats with Heart event.
Season Trajectory
This event serves as a stark reminder of health risks in endurance sports, shifting the focus toward preventative screening and emergency preparedness among local running groups. It reinforces the necessity of safety training for community members who frequently engage in high-exertion athletic activities.
Readers are encouraged to maintain active CPR certification to improve survival outcomes for runners in the community. Those with a family history of heart conditions should consult a cardiologist regarding hypertrophic cardiomyopathy screenings.
The takeaway
Sudden cardiac arrest can strike even experienced athletes, making bystander training an essential skill for the running community. Maintaining up-to-date CPR certification ensures that bystanders can act decisively when seconds count.
What happens next
The American Heart Association is scheduled to hold a Hard Hats with Heart event on October 28, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local athletic safety trends at Running.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 8News.
