(January 9, 2008)--San Antonio officials say a paramedic failed to check the pulse of a car-wreck victim who was presumed dead before a medical examiner discovered she was breathing.

Erica Smith remained in the car's wreckage with a tarp over her body for more than an hour on Dec. 16 before she was taken to a hospital.

The 23-year-old Texas State University student died from her injuries the next day.

Officials say the city's policy calls for paramedics to check vital signs regardless of a patient's injury.

Smith had a severe head injury.

Fire Chief Charles Hood said Tuesday that he's sorry for the mistake and for what the Smith family has endured.

In the days after Smith's death, Hood defended the department's response.

City Manager Sheryl Sculley says the city will immediately implement additional training as a result of the incident.

Four paramedics have been disciplined in the case.

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