The Lehigh Acres Fire Control and Rescue District recognized 13-year-old Dayton Diaz as a Community Youth Hero today in a ceremony held at Station 101. The recognition stems from Dayton’s actions following the serious injury of his friend, Scott Walsh, while they were riding 4-wheelers and bicycles together in their neighborhood on April 23, 2025.
Scott, also 13 years old, was seriously injured after an accident involving his bicycle and a friend’s 4-wheeler. Scott suffered two skull fractures, a broken clavicle, a broken wrist, and several vertebral fractures. When Dayton realized that his friend was injured, he immediately called 911 and was able to calmly explain to the dispatcher what occurred, as well as their location.
“Our District has a special connection to this incident, as Scott is the son of one of our firefighters,” stated Chief Robert DiLallo. “Scott’s father, Firefighter Dennis Walsh, was the acting Lieutenant on the day of the crash, and it was his crew that responded to the scene. We are thankful to share that Scott has made a full recovery after treatment at both Golisano Children’s Hospital and Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.”
Dayton’s quick thinking to notify emergency responders, as well as his ability to relay important information, is worthy of commendation. It also emphasizes the importance of teaching children how to call 911 and understanding what information they will need to provide to the dispatcher. “He was able to provide all of the information, he listened to everything the call-taker asked him, he followed all of the instructions, and did an excellent job,” stated CTO Nancy Ortiz, Emergency Communications Specialist for Lee County Public Safety. “It’s vital for kids and adults to know their address, whether it’s home, school, or work, and to be ready to provide the dispatcher with the information,” she said. “Lee County Public Safety offers free presentations on how and when to use 911 to schools, community groups, and other organizations.”
Chief DiLallo closed the ceremony with a standing invitation to Dayton to join the District’s cadet program. “My understanding is that this experience has inspired Dayton to pursue a career in firefighting and EMS, and we will have a spot waiting for him in our Cadet program as soon as he turns 14. We believe that good kids are newsworthy, and while we know we probably miss many acts of kindness happening in our community, we are happy that we were able to recognize Dayton today as a Youth Hero.”
