Photo Credit: ABC 7
Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in May 2021.
In a remarkable display of bravery and quick thinking, a 7-year-old boy became a hero by swimming for an hour to rescue his stranded family off the Florida coast. Chase Poust, along with his 4-year-old sister Abigail and their father Steven, embarked on a fishing trip last Friday night that soon took a terrifying turn.
Photo Credit: ABC 7
As their boat was anchored, Chase and Abigail decided to take a dip in the water. However, the fun quickly turned into a life-threatening situation as they found themselves caught in the grip of a powerful current. Chase vividly recalled the harrowing moment, saying, “The current was so strong that my sister, who usually hangs out at the back of the boat, let go, so I let go of the boat and grabbed her. Then I was stuck.”
Realizing the danger they were in, Steven, their father, made a split-second decision and jumped into the turbulent waters to help his children. Abigail was wearing a life jacket, but both Chase and his father were without any flotation devices. In those dire moments, Steven found himself separated from his children. He later shared, “I told them I loved him because I wasn’t sure what’s going to happen. I made every effort to stay with her, struggling to keep up with both of them, but my strength waned, and she gradually drifted farther from me.”
Photo Credit: ABC 7
As Steven fought to reach his little girl, Chase made a courageous decision of his own. The 7-year-old embarked on an hour-long swim towards the shore, alternating between swimming and resting on his back to preserve his energy. Eventually, Chase reached the shore, exhausted but determined to get help for his family.
In an act of incredible composure for someone so young, Chase raced to a neighbor’s door to seek assistance. Together, they dialed 911, alerting rescue crews to the dire situation unfolding offshore.
Photo Credit: ABC 7
Florida Fish and Wildlife crews were dispatched promptly, and their swift action led to the rescue of Abigail and Steven. The family’s ordeal ended with a wave of relief as they were reunited on the safety of the shore.
Reflecting on the miraculous rescue, Steven said, “We’re here. By the grace of God, we’re here.” The Poust family’s story is a testament to the bravery of young Chase and the strength of a family united in the face of a life-threatening crisis.
Photo Credit: ABC 7
This remarkable tale serves as a reminder of the importance of water safety and quick thinking in emergencies. Chase’s courage shines as a beacon of hope and inspiration, proving that heroes can emerge from the most unexpected places, even a 7-year-old boy caught in a turbulent current off the Florida coast.
Sources: ABC 7
