13-year-old Wilmington boy recognized for life-saving actions at National Night Out
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A 13-year-old Wilmington boy was recognized Wednesday night for his quick thinking after helping save his elderly neighbor during a medical emergency.
Matthew Johnson was recognized by the New Hanover County 911 Center during the Wilmington Police Department and New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office’s National Night Out event at Long Leaf Park.
Johnson said he realized something was wrong while his neighbor was experiencing what he believed was a stroke. He quickly took action and contacted his father before calling 911.
“We actually have a magnet on our fridge, with the early signs and signals of a stroke,” Johnson explained. “I figured I would call my dad and let him know I was gonna call 911,” Johnson said.
His actions were recognized as an example of the importance of staying alert and knowing when to call for emergency help.
The recognition was part of National Night Out, an annual and national event designed to bring law enforcement agencies and members of the community together.
Hundreds of people attended Wednesday night’s event at Long Leaf Park, which began at 6 p.m. and featured family activities, including a dunk tank and inflatable attractions.
The Wilmington Police Department and New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office hosted the event with participation from other agencies and organizations, including Leland Police, the North Carolina Highway Patrol, the Wilmington Fire Department, the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, and more.
