Editorial - July 2002

Lincoln blessed with young, brave ‘heroes’

July 5, 2002 - Just last summer we praised the actions of a young boy scout, Christopher Haney, 10, who rescued his neighbor, 9-year-old Samantha Edwards from a tree after she accidentally came in contact with a power line. We were proud of Christopher, and today we have another reason to be proud of a young Lincolnton boy whose brave actions probably saved the life of a 12-year-old girl. Stanton Shirley, 12, quickly pulled his friend, Jessica Williams, from the waters of Lake Norman about two weeks ago when he saw her struggling beneath the surface of the water. He probably wasn’t the only hero/heroin in this rescue.  Her mother, Becky Williams and Dot Shirley began CPR as soon as she was brought to shore. Minutes later, East Lincoln Fire Department personnel arrived and used an automatic external defibrillator to restart Jessica’s heart. A paramedic from Lincoln County EMS then arrived and started advanced life support. She was taken by ambulance to the fire department and airlifted from there to Carolinas Medical Center. She received a lot of quick attention from caring people. But EMS Director Ron Rombs gave a lot of credit to Stanton. “Had Stanton not taken action without hesitation, Jessica probably wouldn’t be with us today,” Rombs said.

 Jessica quickly recovered and was released from CMC earlier this week.

When our young people are in danger, we usually look to law enforcement personnel and other adult officials for help. So, it is with a great deal of pride and gratefulness that we congratulate Stanton and Christopher for the actions they took. Thanks to the Lincoln County Commissioners and the local Safe Kids Coalition for recognizing both of these brave young men.

© 2001 Lincoln Times-News  

Terms and Conditions