16-Year-Old’s Quick Action in River Rescue Protects Three Girls and a Police Officer

Pulling the struggling rescuer in the same way he had helped the other victims, Corion swam him toward safety until he could finally reach ground where his feet touched the riverbed.

Final Moments in the Water and Aftermath
Towards the end of the ordeal, Corion and the others had made multiple trips across the river — each a risk that could have cost them their own lives.

Yet because of his calm decisiveness, lack of hesitation, and remarkable stamina, all four people — the three teenage girls and Officer Mercer — were brought safely to shore.

Once on land, the victims were examined and treated at a local hospital for water inhalation and exhaustion. Thanks to emergency care and the efforts of first responders, all four were reported to be recovering well.

Corion himself also felt the effects of the night’s events. The vigorous swimming against current and repeated trips took a toll on his strength and energy, but he remained composed — even as he realized the full magnitude of what he had just done.