Following a two-car collision in the intersection where he worked, school crossing guard Eduardo Villalpando suffered life-threatening injuries. Quick actions by car wash managers Nabeel Karadsheh (left) and Victor Montes (right) saved Villalpando's life. For their bravery, the heroes received honors during the 19th Annual Hometown Heroes Award event.
A routine afternoon for crossing guard Eduardo Villalpando turned into a nightmare, when a two-car collision caused one of the vehicles to jump the curb of the intersection and careen into the guard, causing life-threatening injuries.
Witnesses Victor Montes and Nabeel Karadsheh from Superfine Auto Spa Car Wash acted swiftly. Victor improvised a tourniquet while Nabeel dialed 9-1-1, providing crucial aid to Eduardo in the critical moments after the collision.
"I saw he was missing part of his leg.” Said Montes. “I got one of my co-workers belt and put a tourniquet on his leg. I just stayed with him, tried to calm him down."
Deputy Sheriff Garlitz arrived, further aiding Eduardo with medical assistance from his patrol vehicle's trauma kit. Eduardo, facing traumatic injuries, was swiftly taken to the hospital by paramedics.
Though Eduardo endured significant harm, he is now on the path to recovery, thanks to the quick and effective actions of Victor, Nabeel, and Deputy Sheriff Garlitz. The team’s swift response ensured Eduardo received vital care before emergency services arrived.
This story of heroism highlights the importance of community readiness and swift action in a crisis. The selfless actions of those who aided Eduardo serve as a beacon of bravery and compassion in adversity.
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Critically injured, Eduardo Villalpando is alive today, thanks to witnesses Montes and Karadsheh. The men applied first aid knowledge immediately following Villalpando's accident. Photo by Mimi Teller/American Red Cross.
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