FRANKLIN COUNTY, N.C. — There is a new twist in a story that made headlines for weeks. Two Franklin County paramedics who mistakenly declared a man dead are getting new support.

A car hit Larry Green last month. He survived the crash, but EMS workers at the scene said he died.

The county fired the paramedics, but County Commissioner Ray Stone said the county's actions are heavy-handed and unfair.

"They weren't given time to prepare a defense. They weren't told they can bring in counsel or they could face their accuser face to face. These are basic elements of due process. None of that was observed," he said.

Stone has taken out ads in the local paper seeking donations for the paramedics. He said the money will help defray legal costs for an appeal.

Green is in serious condition at Duke Hospital.