Kamenetz Heart Attack Would Have Been Difficult to Treat, Doctor Says
Dr. Gail Cunningham of St. Joseph’s Medical Center addresses a question at a news conference after Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz’ death. | Facebook
Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz, who died early Thursday morning from cardiac arrest, suffered from a ventricular fibrillation, which are difficult to treat, a doctor who oversaw his treatment said Thursday morning.
A ventricular fibrillation is a sign the heart is not getting enough blood, said Dr. Gail Cunningham of St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Towson.
“It’s very common with a very serious heart attack,” Cunningham said. “It’s often most associated with someone having a sudden heart attack.”
Cunningham addressed reporters’ questions in a news conference at the Baltimore County Public Safety Building in Towson and broadcast over Facebook.
Kamenetz, 60, was pronounced dead at 3:20 a.m., said Elise Armacost, public affairs director for the Baltimore County Fire Department.
Kamenetz was one of nine Democrats running for governor in the June 26 primary. The winner will face Gov. Larry Hogan, who released this statement Thursday morning:
“The First Lady and I are saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz this morning. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
“He was a dedicated public servant in Baltimore County for more than two decades, and we join with the citizens of Baltimore County and all Marylanders in mourning.
“Our prayers go out to his wife, Jill, his sons Karson and Dylan, and to his entire family. In the difficult days to come, we will provide any support we possibly can to the Kamenetz family and the citizens of Baltimore County.”
Hogan ordered flags at half-staff until sunset on the day of Kamenetz’ interment.
At the news conference, Armacost said she had no details on funeral arrangements.
Kamenetz was running with former Montgomery County Council member Valerie Ervin as his lieutenant governor candidate.
Valerie Ervin | File photo
Sean Naron, a Kamenetz campaign spokesman, said the campaign would not be making Ervin available to reporters. She released this statement:
“Like so many, I am shocked and heartbroken by this sudden and unexpected loss. I want to thank those across Maryland for their outpouring of support, sympathy, and gratitude during this difficult time.
“Kevin was first and foremost a loving husband to his wife Jill and a proud father to Karson and Dylan. And he was a dedicated, bold leader who served the people of Baltimore County for over 20 years. I have been honored to call him a friend and partner.
“Today all of Maryland mourns with his family, friends, and loved ones.”
Armacost said Kevin and Jill Kamenetz drove to the Chestnut Ridge Volunteer Fire Company in Owings Mills, which is about 2 miles from his home. About 2 a.m., from the fire company parking lot, Kamenetz called 911.
She said she did not know why he didn’t call 911 from his home.
While Kamenetz was at the fire station, Chestnut Ridge volunteers began evaluating the county executive and started basic life support care, Armacost said. Kamenetz collapsed at the fire station.
Kamenetz’ condition worsened, she said. An ambulance took him to St. Joseph’s. Kamenetz never regained consciousness after collapsing, Armacost said.
Armacost was unaware whether the county executive or his wife drove there.
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