16-Year-Old Rescues 3 Girls and Officer from Drowning
A Mississippi teenager is being hailed as a hero after bravely rescuing three teenage girls and a police officer from drowning.
Corion Evans, 16, jumped into the Pascagoula River in Moss Point around 2:30 a.m. Sunday after witnessing a car drive off the I-10 boat launch and into the water. The teen driver had mistakenly followed her GPS, leading the vehicle into the river, where it floated about 20 feet before sinking. The three girls inside managed to climb onto the roof of the sinking car.
Evans immediately sprang into action, swimming to help them. Officer Garry Mercer arrived on the scene and also swam toward the vehicle. However, while assisting one of the affected persons, the officer went under after swallowing water. Evans helped pull both the officer and the affected persons safely to shore.
“We commend Mr. Evans’ bravery and selflessness,” said Moss Point Police Chief Brandon Ashley. “If Mr. Evans had not assisted, the situation could have turned out differently.”
All four individuals were rescued safely and are doing well. On Tuesday night, Evans and Officer Mercer were honored with Certificates of Commendation by Mayor Billy Knight and the Board of Aldermen.
“We are proud of the young man for having the courage to forget about himself and jump into the water,” said Mayor Knight. “It’s not often that you see people put others above themselves.”
