A 27-year-old Texas man, Julian Ryan, died a hero on July 4 after cutting an artery in his arm while breaking a window to save his family from the rising Guadalupe River floodwaters at their Ingram trailer home. As floodwaters surged inside, he and loved ones retreated to a back room and repeatedly called 911. Realizing no first responders could arrive in time, Julian punched through a window to create an escape route for his fiancée, their two children (aged 6 and 13 months), and his mother. In doing so, he severed a major artery and bled out hours later—his final words being, “I’m sorry, I’m not going to make it. I love y’all”.
Family and loved ones recall him as selfless, loving, and optimistic. His sister Connie Salas declared he “died a hero,” while his fiancée Christinia Wilson and mother-in-law Pamela Baker praised him as the ultimate protector of his family. They’ve set up a GoFundMe supporting the family, raising over $90,000 as of Monday.
This incident occurred amid catastrophic flash flooding in Central Texas during the Independence Day holiday weekend. Torrential rains swelled the Guadalupe River, creating a crisis that has claimed at least 82 lives, including many children—particularly those at summer camps near the flood zone. Amid continuing rescue efforts and more rainfall, communities are working to recover from what officials are calling a “100‑year catastrophe”.
Key Takeaways:
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Date & Location: The flash flood struck early morning on July 4 in Ingram, Kerr County, Texas, caused by rapidly rising waters from the Guadalupe River.
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Heroic Act: Julian Ryan broke a window to free his family, severing his arm artery and sacrificing his life.
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Final Moments: Despite bleeding, he ensured his loved ones escaped. Emergency services were unable to arrive in time.
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Impact on Community: The flood has devastated Texas Hill Country, with ongoing search and rescue amid rising death tolls and damaged infrastructure.
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Support Efforts: A GoFundMe organized in his honor raised significant funds to support his family. Communities across Texas are mobilizing aid and paying tribute.
Julian Ryan’s selfless act and last words have deeply affected both his family and the wider Texas community, serving as a poignant testament to familial love and bravery amid tragedy.
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