In July 2022, 16-year-old Corion Evans from Mississippi performed a heroic act that captured national attention.
Around 2:30 a.m., Corion witnessed a car carrying three teenage girls veer off a boat launch and plunge into the Pascagoula River (also known as the Moss Point River). Without hesitation, he removed his shoes and shirt, dove into the dark, murky water, and swam toward the sinking vehicle—nearly 20 feet from shore.
Fighting the current, Corion reached the car and helped the panicked girls climb onto its roof. One by one, he guided them back to safety. But his rescue mission wasn’t over yet.
As the situation unfolded, Officer Gary Mercer, who had arrived to assist, began struggling in the water. Corion turned back once again—this time saving the officer as well.
That night, he saved four lives.
Corion Evans’ courage drew praise from local officials and spread quickly across social media. His fearless, instinctive response turned a near-tragedy into a powerful story of selflessness, bravery, and quick thinking—proving that real heroes can come from the most unexpected places.