Anonymous Hero Living in the Woods Rescues Mom & Baby After Bayou Crash

A Texas mother and her baby survived a terrifying accident thanks to a homeless mystery man who came to the rescue. The 22-year-old was driving with her 8-month-old baby around 9:45 p.m. on January 1, 2026, when she lost control of her minivan. Unable to stop, the vehicle became submerged in the Dickinson Bayou near Paul Hopkins Park. A witness called 911 for help, and officers with the Dickinson Police Department arrived shortly thereafter. But when they arrived, they found something miraculous: The mother and child were both alive and well, thanks to a good Samaritan.

KTRK reported that a homeless man who stays in the woods near the crash site heard the accident. He reportedly got into a kayak, paddled out to the van, and helped the woman and her baby to safety. By the time they reached the shore, emergency responders were on the scene. They took the mom and baby to the University of Texas Medical Branch for treatment of minor injuries. Doctors released both, per officials.

According to a release from the Dickinson Police Department, it’s unclear how the woman lost control of the car, but drugs and alcohol did not play a part in the crash. The man who rescued the mother and child chose to remain anonymous.

“The Dickinson Police Department would like to thank the good Samaritan for his quick and selfless actions,” police shared in the release.

Many commenters on the police department’s Facebook page praised the man for his bravery.

“Thank God there are still good people in this world. I hope that man gets all the blessings in the world for saving that woman and her child,” one person wrote.

“Thank you young Man… you truly deserve to be HONORED FOR YOUR ACTIONS. Thank you again, and we will respect your privacy!” someone else agreed.

Another person put it very simply and sweetly, writing, “Whoever you are, [you are] a great person!!!”

This story is a wonderful reminder not to judge someone by their home, their looks, or their profession. What’s inside is truly what matters most.