Heroic Rescue: Man Saves 3-Year-Old Boy from Burning Car, Shares Heart-Wrenching Decision to Leave Sister Behind
Heroic Rescue in Lakeland, Florida
Overview of the Incident
On November 7, 2024, a tragic car fire in Lakeland, Florida, led to a daring rescue by Anthony Slater, who managed to save a three-year-old boy while tragically leaving his five-year-old sister behind.
Details of the Accident
- The vehicle, a white Kia sedan, had crashed into a wooded area, causing it to catch fire.
- An emotional Slater described the panic as he heard the children's father, Kody Wills, calling for help while he was incapacitated by the crash.
Slater's Efforts and Aftermath
Despite the harrowing circumstances, Slater successfully rescued the young boy but was unable to get to his sister, who was unconscious and in distress.
- Slater later recounted speaking to the girl as he fought to save her, expressing deep sadness over having to leave her behind.
- Following the incident, Slater was hospitalized for severe burns sustained during the rescue.
Community Response and Support
GoFundMe Campaigns
- Two GoFundMe pages were established: one to cover Slater's medical bills and another for the young boy's hospital expenses as well as the sister's funeral.
Witness Accounts
Local resident Hal Clark provided testimony of the dramatic scene, highlighting Slater's desperate attempts to save the children amidst the flames.
For further details, visit the original article [here](https://www.unilad.com/news/us-news/florida-rescue-anthony-slater-boy-burning-car-accident-119860-20241118).
