A 27-year-old father in Ingram, Texas, gave his life to save his fiancée, children, and mother during a catastrophic flash flood on Independence Day. Julian Ryan suffered a fatal arm laceration while breaking a window to help his family escape rising waters from the Guadalupe River.
Ryan and his family were trapped in their mobile home just 200 yards from the river when torrential flooding struck early Friday morning. Officials reported water levels surged over 26 feet in less than three hours. His fiancée, Christina Wilson, said their home filled with water within minutes, rising to their knees and forcing the family into a desperate bid for survival.
As water overwhelmed the home, Ryan took decisive action. He punched out a window to give his family an escape route to the roof. In doing so, he sustained a deep cut to his arm that severed an artery. The injury quickly became fatal. Despite the trauma, Ryan remained focused on his family. “I’m sorry, I’m not going to make it. I love y’all,” he reportedly told them before succumbing to blood loss.
His family, including Wilson, their children, and his mother, made it safely to the roof thanks to his efforts. First responders could not reach them in time due to the raging floodwaters. Ryan’s body was recovered hours later after the waters receded.
Ryan’s sister, Connie Salas, who lived next door, described him as a man of courage and heart. She emphasized that his sacrifice must not be forgotten. “He needs to be known as a person, not just some body on the ground,” she said.
The story of Julian Ryan’s selfless actions has sparked widespread recognition across Texas and online. He is remembered as a devoted father and a man who gave everything to protect his loved ones.
