Girl, 17, tragically dies after passing out during routine wisdom teeth removal

An Illinois teen suddenly passed away after she became unresponsive during routine dental surgery.

Sophie Farmer, 17, was undergoing a wisdom teeth extraction at Northern Lakes Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center in Grayslake, about 50 miles outside of Chicago, when she passed out on July 21.

Grayslake Fire Department Chief Dan Pierre told People the 911 caller reported a person in cardiac arrest.

When paramedics arrived, Framer’s heart had stopped beating, and she was not breathing.

The dental office had started an IV, and paramedics performed CPR and intubation, according to Pierre.

While in the ambulance, Farmer regained a pulse and started to breathe again, but she did not regain consciousness.

She was taken to Advocate Children’s Hospital, where she died three days later on July 24, the Lake & McHenry County Scanner reported.

After three months of investigation, the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office determined that she died of complications from a rare genetic disorder, ARID1B.

Sophie Farmer (pictured), 17, unexpectedly passed away after she began unconscious during routine dental surgery

After three months of investigation, the medical examiner’s office determined Farmer (pictured with her father) died of complications from a rare genetic disorder, ARID1B

Her death was listed as ‘natural’, with the cause listed as ‘complications of dental extraction surgery under sedation with ARID1B gene mutation and multiple neurologic abnormalities as contributing factors.’

ARID1B is a rare genetic disorder that causes significant developmental delays and disabilities, according to the Foundation for ARID1B Research.

‘Children and adults with ARID1B-RD typically have intellectual disability of variable degree, and may also have autistic features, seizures, delays or (near) absence of speech, as well as daily living and motor impairments,’ the foundation said.

‘The disorder is probably underdiagnosed because of its diverse manifestations and the lack of availability of genetic diagnostic testing.’

Pierre called her death a ‘sad ending to a 17-year-old girl’s life,’ adding that paramedics were not informed about any genetic abnormalities and that the department’s incident record ‘doesn’t show that it was reported.’

Farmer’s family described her as a ‘beloved daughter’ who was passionate about outdoor activities, animals and her faith.

‘From the moment she came into our lives, Sophie filled our hearts with immeasurable love and laughter,’ her obituary said.

‘She loved boating, camping, and she never met a dog that she didn’t want to keep. Above all else, Sophie loved the Lord.

Farmer’s family said she ‘filled our hearts with immeasurable love and laughter,’ and loved to go boating and camping

She was undergoing a wisdom teeth extraction at Northern Lakes Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center (pictured) on July 21 when her heart stopped beating

‘She was active in her youth group and loved to sing on the worship team. She had a tender heart for others and you would often find her praying over her friends.’

Farmer is survived by her parents, grandparents, brother and sister. Her funeral was held on August 2.