A Young Hero’s Courageous Rescue

One ordinary night in Moss Point, Mississippi, took a heroic turn when a 16-year-old boy risked everything to save three stranded girls from drowning.

At around 2:30 a.m. during a warm July night, a teenage driver veered off the boat launch into the Pascagoula River, with three girls inside unaware of the impending danger. As the vehicle floated approximately 20 feet from shore, panic set in as it began to sink, and the girls screamed for help.

Corion Evans, a high school student, heard the distress calls and without hesitation, removed his shoes and shirt, jumping into the dark river. “I couldn’t let anyone die. They needed to get out,” he recalled. Swimming toward the sinking vehicle, he reached the roof where the girls clung desperately.

One of Corion’s friends was motivated by his bravery and entered the water to aid the rescue. Together, they kept the girls afloat while searching for a way to bring them to safety. Their effort was interrupted by Officer Gary Mercer of the Moss Point Police Department, who arrived to assist.

The officer, overwhelmed with the task, struggled and went under water. Seeing him in danger, Corion instinctively turned back, swimming to rescue the officer as well. “He was drowning and yelling for help,” Corion explained. With determination, he grabbed the officer and together, they managed to reach shore with all four individuals.

All were taken to the hospital for evaluation and were reported to be recovering well. The police praised Corion’s bravery, stating that without his quick action, the outcome might have been tragic. In recognition, he received a citation of commendation for his heroism.

Reflecting on the event, Corion shared that he had been swimming since he was three, which helped him stay calm in the situation. Despite the praise, he remained humble, saying, “I just did what I felt was right.”

The community celebrated his courage, and his story inspired many, emphasizing the importance of bravery and community support. His actions not only saved lives but also served as a powerful reminder that heroism often begins with a simple act of instinctive kindness.