posted September 22, 2025

Keith Herl overcame an unbelievable attack and reached out to thank those who helped him

Pahrump, NV, Sept. 19, 2025 – Pahrump resident Gregory “Keith” Herl was driving home with his family in November 2022 when a stranger pulled up next to his car and began firing a shotgun. The shooter ran him off the road and pursued him, but Herl miraculously got away, despite suffering multiple shotgun wounds to his neck, back, and the back of his head. His wife called 911 and Pahrump Fire provided initial care before bringing him by ambulance to the Mercy Air 21 base in Pahrump for air transport to University Medical Center in Las Vegas. On Friday, Herl, his wife, and his two grandsons, all who were in the car during the attack, reunited with the flight crew and area first responders who played a critical role in his survival.

“Pahrump Fire brought him to us and we got him ready for transport, then it takes us about 20 minutes to get to UMC trauma in Las Vegas,” said Mercy Air Flight Nurse Beth Kueneman. “We are very lucky that he is here with us today and we appreciate that we are able to come together with the family to share in the joy that he is still here.”

Due to the significant blood loss he experienced, Herl received packed red blood cells and plasma during the flight. Today, Mercy Air crews are also equipped with whole blood and can administer it at the scene or in flight due to its ability to clot and carry oxygen throughout the body more efficiently. The entire family shared their thanks for the exceptional care Herl received throughout the ordeal.

“From the time the Sheriff’s department showed up and apprehended the guy, the fire department took me to the helicopter, and these guys [Mercy Air] flew me to UMC, it went just like clockwork,” said Herl. “If it hadn’t, I wouldn’t be standing up here today. I want to thank each and every one of you because each of you is a hero.”

To show her gratitude for saving her husband, Pamela Herl hand-made plaques that she gave to Kueneman, Mercy Air Flight Paramedic Nicholas Enos, Mercy Air Pilot Kyle Davis, Pahrump Fire Rescue Chief Scott Lewis, and Nye County Sheriff Joe McGill.

“All of these people are amazing,” said Pamela Herl. “He would have died, but all of these people were there, and they did everything they were supposed to do. I don’t know what we would have done without you. We love you all.”

While he has made a remarkable recovery, Herl still has buckshot in his lung and neck, causing constant pain. Due to the nature of the lead in the buckshot, it may never be possible to remove it. Despite this pain, Herl’s spirits remain high, and he is committed to being there for his wife and his two grandsons.

“When Keith was in the helicopter, he wasn’t thinking about himself. He kept asking about his wife and wondering if the boys were okay,” said Enos. “It speaks to his character and his unselfishness. I’m so happy he’s still here with his family.”

Incidents like this can cause concerns about medical expenses, but thanks to the No Surprises Act, which went into effect in 2022, insured patients are protected from unexpected bills. They cannot be charged more than their copay, coinsurance, deductible, or maximum out-of-pocket expenditure—including for emergency air medical transport. Herl did not receive a bill for his transport thanks to his coverage. Mercy Air is part of Air Methods, the nation’s leading air medical service provider. The Air Methods patient advocacy program works directly with patients to navigate financial assistance options, regardless of insurance coverage.

“Thank you for saving my Poppa,” said Herl’s 16-year-old grandson Jesse. “We can go fishing and work on the cars again. I’m very grateful. Thank you!”

Photos of the reunion are available here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/pjR49VD2vgyPWLJR7