Nakina Fire and Rescue Responded to Medical Emergency; Patient Airlifted After Helipad Transfer

July 3, 2026 Coastal Carolina News Staff Columbus County, Crime & Public Safety, News 0

Coordinated response involved multiple agencies after EMS determined the patient required rapid air medical transport.

Nakina, NC — On July 2, 2026, Nakina Fire & Rescue EMS 10 and Tabor City Paramedic QRV 21 were dispatched at 1:54 p.m. to the 100 block of Long Corner Road in the Crusoe Island community for a reported person that was sick.

Upon arrival, EMS crews determined the patient required a higher level of care and requested air medical transport. Old Dock Cypress Creek Fire Department was called to assist with patient lifting and establishing a landing zone. Cape Fear Valley Health LifeLink accepted the mission.

While LifeLink was enroute, medical personnel elected to rendezvous with the helicopter at the Columbus Regional Healthcare System helipad to expedite the transfer to critical care. Whiteville Police Department provided a police escort to the helipad, ensuring the patient reached the landing zone quickly and safely. The patient was then airlifted to an undisclosed hospital for further treatment.

The department emphasized that strong interagency cooperation remains essential to providing the highest level of service to the community. Nakina Fire & Rescue is grateful for the coordinated efforts of all partnering agencies, acknowledging the contributions of Tabor City Paramedic QRV 21, Old Dock Cypress Creek Fire Department, Columbus County 911 Communications Center, Cape Fear Valley Health LifeLink, and Whiteville PD in ensuring the patient received prompt, high‑quality care.