ALVARADO, Texas — An off-duty firefighter is being recognized for his extraordinary bravery after rescuing three young children who became trapped beneath an overturned boat during a boating accident on Alvarado Lake over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
The dramatic rescue has drawn widespread praise across Texas and beyond.
The firefighter, Jason Horne, a paramedic with the Midlothian Fire Department, was enjoying the holiday with his family and his 12-year-old daughter, Emilie Horne, when nearby boaters began shouting that children were trapped underwater after a boat carrying nine people capsized.
Without hesitation, Horne jumped into the lake and swam beneath the overturned vessel.
During his first dive, Jason Horne located a young boy by feeling his life jacket in the dark water and safely brought him to the surface. He immediately returned beneath the boat and found a young girl who was unresponsive.
Climbing onto the overturned boat, Horne performed CPR while Emilie Horne called 911. Moments later, the little girl began breathing again.
Horne then entered the water a third time to search for another child. With help from nearby boaters who managed to partially turn the boat, rescuers located a second young boy entangled in anchor rope.
Jason Horne restored the child’s pulse before emergency crews transported all three children to a nearby hospital for evaluation. Authorities later reported that none of the children suffered life-threatening injuries.
The Alvarado Police Department and the Midlothian Fire Department praised Jason Horne for his courage, professionalism, and selfless actions.
Officials described his response as an example of the dedication shown by first responders, even while off duty.
As the children continue recovering, many across Texas have celebrated Jason Horne as a hero whose quick decisions and lifesaving skills transformed what could have become a devastating tragedy into an inspiring story of courage and hope.