UPDATE: A heroic rescue unfolded on New Year’s Day as a homeless man saved a mother and her infant after their minivan plunged into Dickinson Bayou in Texas. The incident occurred around 9:40 p.m. on January 1, 2026, when the vehicle veered off FM 517 and crashed into the water.
According to officials, the 22-year-old mother lost control of her minivan after hitting a curb on a bridge. The vehicle crossed multiple lanes of traffic before entering the bayou. Fortunately, a homeless man living nearby witnessed the crash and sprang into action.
Without hesitation, he paddled his canoe to the submerged vehicle, successfully rescuing both the mother and her 8-month-old baby. They were brought safely to shore just as local police arrived on the scene.
Emergency responders from the Dickinson Volunteer Fire Department also quickly mobilized, using their boat to assist a tow truck driver in securing and retrieving the minivan from the water. The mother and her baby were transported to the University of Texas Medical Branch in League City for precautionary checks.
Authorities later confirmed that both were released from the hospital and are recovering well. Investigators determined that neither alcohol nor drugs contributed to the crash, and the baby was safely secured in a car seat at the time of the incident.
In an official statement, the Dickinson Police Department praised the homeless man for his “quick and selfless actions,” though he chose to remain anonymous. His bravery has garnered him the title of a hero among local officials and the community.
This remarkable incident highlights the importance of quick thinking and courage in critical moments, reminding us of the potential for heroism in unexpected places. As details continue to emerge, the community is rallying to recognize the good Samaritan who made a life-saving difference on what could have been a tragic New Year’s Day.
