Jason Horne thought he was spending a normal day with his family at Lake Alvarado in Texas.
Instead, the off-duty Midlothian firefighter found himself diving beneath a capsized boat to rescue three children trapped underwater.
Authorities said a motorized boat overturned over the weekend, leaving the children trapped beneath the vessel. Before emergency crews arrived, Horne entered the water and began searching for the children.
Firefighter Heard People Calling for Help
Horne was spending time with his family when he noticed people waving and shouting near the lake.
When he moved closer, he saw the overturned boat and learned that children were trapped underneath.
Without hesitation, he removed his hat and glasses, entered the water, and began searching beneath the boat.
Horne said he first felt a life jacket and pulled out a young boy who was weak but conscious.
Horne Helped Rescue More Children
Horne returned underwater and found a young girl who was unconscious and not breathing, according to officials.
He later helped rescue a third child after additional people arrived by boat and assisted with the rescue effort.
Officials said two of the children were initially unresponsive. Horne used lifesaving measures before they were transported to shore.
His Daughter Watched the Rescue Unfold
Horne’s 12-year-old daughter, Emilie, witnessed her father’s actions and called 911 while he worked to save the children.
She later said she was proud of him.
The Alvarado Police Department praised Horne’s quick response and credited his training and willingness to act before emergency crews arrived.
Life Jackets Helped Save Lives
Horne, who is also a father of four, said the rescue reinforced a lesson he regularly teaches his own children.
He said life jackets make it easier to locate people in the water and believes the children’s safety equipment played an important role.
Officials said all three children were wearing life jackets during the incident.
Why This Story Matters
The rescue is a reminder that emergency situations can happen in seconds and that preparation can make the difference between tragedy and survival.
Horne was not responding as an assigned firefighter that day. He was simply a father and community member who recognized people needed help and chose to act.
Conclusion
Three children were rescued after a boat capsized at Lake Alvarado in Texas. Officials credited off-duty firefighter Jason Horne’s quick actions with helping save the children, while their exact medical conditions were not released.
