In the blink of an eye, a family trip can turn tragic. But, sometimes you can find the unlikeliest hero that can save the day. In a terrifying incident on a weekend boating trip along Florida’s St. Johns River, a 7-year-old boy named Chase Poust rose up to rescue his family.
The young boy, along with his 4-year-old sister Abigail and their father Steven Poust, faced a life-threatening situation when a strong current swept Abigail away from their anchored boat. What followed was a remarkable display of courage and determination that ultimately saved their lives.
The family’s day of leisure, Steven said, turned into a nightmare as Abigail struggled to hold onto the boat amidst the powerful current. In a split-second decision, Chase let go of the boat to reach his little sister, displaying a selflessness that belied his young age. In the chaos that ensued, Steven leaped into the water to rescue both children, but the current proved relentless.
“I told them I loved him because I wasn’t sure what’s going to happen,” Steven recalled, his voice choking with emotion. Despite his efforts, Abigail drifted away from her father. ‘The current was so strong that my sister — she usually hangs out at the back of the boat — and she let go,’ said Chase. ‘So, I let go of the boat and grabbed her, and then, I was stuck,” he said.
I felt really scared.”
With Steven frantically following Abigail, Chase was the family’s only hope. Without hesitation, Chase began a solitary swim to shore, navigating the treacherous waters with a combination of doggie paddling and floating on his back. The young boy, devoid of a life jacket unlike his sister, battled against the opposing current for an agonizing hour, covering a mile before reaching land.
His determination paid off as he sprinted to the nearest house, urgently seeking help. The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded to the distress call.
Their joint efforts led to the safe rescue of Steven and Abigail, who were found approximately a mile from their boat. Reflecting on the incident, Steven acknowledged the miraculous turn of events.
Little man … made it to shore and got help, and that’s what saved our lives.”
Despite the odds stacked against them, the family emerged unscathed, with Chase’s inexplicable swimming skills making the young man a hero. It’s worth noting that neither Chase nor his father were required to wear a life vest, as per the law applicable to children aged 6 and under for vessels under 26 feet long.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of water activities and the importance of remaining vigilant, even in seemingly calm rivers. When asked about his newfound swimming prowess, Chase modestly replied, “I have no idea.” But his father knows better. “We’re here. By the grace of God, we’re here,” he said. Watch the courageous little boy talk about his adventure, below.
Sources: NBC | People | Daily Mail
