Harnett County teen honored as hero for saving friend's life after car crash

LILLINGTON, N.C. (WTVD) -- A recent high school graduate was hailed as a hero Monday.

Harnett County Emergency Services presented Dylan Culley with the Lifesaving Valor Award for his actions in saving his friend's life during a car crash in January.

Dylan was a backseat passenger in the car that rolled and hit a large tree.

He was able to save his friend's life by improvising a tourniquet with his hoodie and a metal rod from the vehicle's jack handle.

Dylan said that was something he was taught at Western Harnett High School.

"Today, we proudly present the Lifesaving Valor Award to Dylan Cully, a recent graduate of Western Harnett High School," said Morgan Langdon, Harnett County Emergency Services District Chief. "Dylan is being recognized for his extraordinary bravery and skill in applying 'stop the bleed' techniques. His quick thinking and courageous actions in a life-threatening situation have made a profound impact, embodying the true spirit of heroism."

The Lifesaving Valor Award is typically given to a community member who demonstrates exceptional courage in a life-threatening situation.