Monroe, Ga. (Nov. 5, 2026) – Piedmont Walton Hospital has named first responders from the Loganville Police Department, Loganville Fire Department, Walton County EMS, and Air Evac 117 as its November 2026 First Friday Heroes. The responders are being recognized for the teamwork and life-saving care they provided following a serious vehicle accident resulting in one of the passengers sustaining traumatic injuries and severe bleeding.

“We are honored to recognize these first responders for their courageous actions and unwavering commitment to protecting and caring for our community,” said Blake Watts, CEO of Piedmont Walton Hospital.

On Aug. 25, 2026, a car crash resulting in severe injuries occurred on Highway 78 in Loganville. One of the passengers involved in the collision was thrown through the passenger-side windshield before landing back inside the vehicle. The collision caused an open fracture to the victim’s right arm and a severe wound that resulted in significant bleeding.

Loganville Police Officer Codie Carr witnessed the crash and immediately radioed for assistance before helping the victims. Lt. Terry Haymore (Loganville Police), who was less than a block away, responded to the request within moments to assist.

The officers quickly recognized that the victim was suffering from uncontrolled arterial bleeding and applied a tourniquet above her elbow, which slowed but did not stop the bleeding. Shortly afterward, Loganville Police Officer Sgt. Chad McMillan arrived on scene and retrieved a pressure bandage from his patrol vehicle. Together, the officers applied the bandage and were able to bring the bleeding under control.

The Loganville Fire Department and Walton County EMS soon arrived on scene and continued advanced life-saving care. Due to the significant, life-threatening blood loss and traumatic head injuries, an Air Evac medical helicopter was dispatched to transport the patient to a Level I trauma facility.

According to other first responders on scene, the actions taken by the Loganville police officers in the critical minutes before fire and EMS personnel arrived were instrumental in saving the passenger’s life.

“These first responders demonstrated exceptional teamwork, skill and composure under extraordinary circumstances,” said Watts. “Their ability to quickly assess the situation, control the victim’s severe bleeding and provide immediate care helped save the victim’s life.”

Piedmont Walton also recognizes the following first responders for their roles in the emergency response:

Loganville Fire Department: Battalion Chief Brad Schuler, Capt. Thomas Freeman, Sgt. Joseph McCall, Sgt. William Kennedy, Lt. Kevin Myers, Sgt. Thomas Dyer, Lt. Michael Hill and Sgt. William Echols.

Walton County EMS: Aaron Ross and Marcus Crowe.

Air Evac 117: Ebie McCord and Kyle Parkhurst.

Piedmont Walton Hospital’s First Friday Heroes program recognizes first responders whose actions demonstrate exceptional service to the community. The program honors those who go above and beyond in caring for the residents of Walton County.

Community members, coworkers and agency leaders are encouraged to nominate deserving first responders by emailing firstfridayherowalton@piedmont.org. Nominations should include the nominee’s name and agency, contact information and a brief description of the actions that make them deserving of recognition.