A remarkable act of courage by a 71-year-old man in China has drawn widespread admiration online, highlighting how selflessness and presence of mind can save lives even in the most dangerous situations.
Brave rescue in icy waters
The incident took place around 10 am on January 7 at a river in Fangqiao village, Chengdu, in Sichuan province. According to Guangming Daily, Liu Guiyuan, a local resident, jumped into the river to save a man who was drowning after being swept away by strong currents.
Village official Wu Ke, who was on routine patrol along the riverbank, first noticed the man in distress. He immediately grabbed a life ring, ran along the bank and shouted for help as the man was carried downstream.
Swift decision, fearless action
Liu, who was cycling nearby, heard the cries for help and realised the man was drifting towards his direction. Without hesitation, he turned back, removed his clothes and plunged into the cold river.
Battling the powerful current, Liu reached the man, held him securely and attempted to pull him towards the riverbank. However, the steep and slippery embankment made it unsafe to climb out.
Responding to Wu’s calls from the opposite bank, Liu made the critical decision to swim across the river, carefully keeping the man upright while dragging him along.
Rescue completed after tense minutes
Wu initially threw a life ring, which Liu could not catch due to exhaustion. He then ran along the bank with a rescue pole. After nearly 10 minutes of struggle, Liu managed to grasp the pole, and both men were pulled to the river’s edge.
Firefighters soon arrived and used ropes to bring the rescued man safely ashore. He was taken to hospital and has since recovered.
‘I only thought of saving him’
“I wasn’t afraid at all. My only thought was to save him,” Liu later said, adding that he believes doing good whenever possible is a personal responsibility.
Local authorities have since formally recognised Liu for his bravery and selfless act, calling him an inspiration to the community.