The Gilbert Fire and Rescue Department in Arizona is formally honoring 14-year-old Royal Cothrun for his heroic actions in June, when he helped save an elderly woman with dementia who had wandered miles off course in potentially lethal 103°F (39.4°C) heat.
Royal was riding his bicycle in Gilbert when he noticed Theresa Morgan, 76, struggling to walk with a grocery bag and purse. He later told local news outlet KNXV that he slowed down because “she just looked like something was wrong” and that “she was sweating.”
Quick Thinking and Compassion
Morgan had recently been diagnosed with dementia and became disoriented on her way home from a grocery store. Royal, wearing smart glasses that captured the encounter, offered to look up her address on his phone and guided her to shade. He helped her recall her son’s phone number and called Jeff Morgan to inform him of the situation.
The teen stayed with Theresa until her son and Gilbert Fire and Rescue arrived to take her to safety. Jeff Morgan told KNXV, “It’s incredible, really, what he did. Just so lucky, so fortunate, that he ran across her and he cared enough to stay with her and to take care of her.”
Heatwave Dangers
The climate crisis-driven heatwave that scorched parts of the US from June through early July contributed to at least two dozen deaths, according to officials. The Gilbert Fire Department emphasized that confusion or disorientation can be a warning sign of heatstroke, which can be fatal if not addressed promptly.
Battalion Chief Ryan McHugh said, “Royal’s quick thinking and compassion not only protected a vulnerable member of our community – but also highlighted the real dangers posed by Arizona’s extreme heat. His actions remind us all to stay alert and look out for one another, especially during the summer months when heat-related illnesses can become life-threatening.”
Formal Recognition
The Gilbert Fire and Rescue Department plans to honor Royal at a town council meeting on August 11. McHugh added that the department is “proud to recognize Royal’s heroism.”
