A Pascagoula teen was commended by the city’s police department after rescuing three girls and aiding one officer during the Independence Day weekend.
On July 3, 16-year-old Corion Evans witnessed the vehicle containing three teenage girls become submerged in the Pascagoula River near the Interstate 10 overpass.
According to the driver, she mistakenly drove down the boat ramp while following her GPS, later escaping with the two other passengers through the vehicle’s roof.
Once Officer Garry Mercer arrived on the scene, he began to assist the victims back to shore when one of the girls began to panic, causing the officer to go swallow water. Fortunately, Mercer was still able to help the victim out of the water with the assistance of Evans.
“We commend Mr. Evans’ bravery and selflessness he displayed by risking his own safety to help people in danger. If Evans had not assisted, the situation could have turned out differently, instead of all occupants being rescued safely. All partied involved are doing well,” Chief Ashley stated.
Two days later, Evans was presented a Certificate of Commendation during the Mayor and Board of Alderman meeting in honor of his bravery.
Now, the community is looking to express its gratitude by raising money to help the teen pay for college. Evans will be a senior at Pascagoula High School this fall, prompting residents from the area to donate to a GoFundMe titled “Let’s Help Corion get to College.”
