Fundraising Effort To Be Announced For Families Billed For Emergency Services In Valley Village Crash

VALLEY VILLAGE (CBSLA.com) — A Los Angeles councilman Thursday is planning to announce an effort to raise emergency services funds for the families of two good Samaritans who were killed last week trying to help a driver who crashed in Valley Village.

Paul Krekorian said people who are hurt or killed shouldn't pay for ambulance services and treatment by paramedics.

"No one who puts themselves in harm's way should have to struggle to pay the bills that accrue as a result of their altruism," Krekorian said.

He added, "This community is tremendously appreciative of the efforts and sacrifices of these Angelenos who came to the assistance of a stranger, and I'm proud to join with them in showing our support with financial assistance."

Stacey Lee Schreiber, 39, and Irma Zamora, 40, were electrocuted Aug. 22 as they tried to help Arman Samsonian, who drove his SUV into a fire hydrant and a light pole.

The accident created a pool of electrified water. Six other people were injured.

The fire department considered waiving the emergency fees for the victim's families, but the city's municipal code doesn't allow that.

The "Advanced Life Support Services Fee" is $1,373 for patients and "Basic Life Support Fee" is $974. Ambulance transport costs $15.75 per mile.

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