In a dramatic rescue that unfolded in Texas, a 22-year-old woman was saved after being swept 20 miles downriver while clinging to a tree. The incident occurred amid rising floodwaters, which prompted swift action from a nearby family and local authorities.

The harrowing scene began when Carl Jeter and his family, who had already evacuated their home near the river, noticed a woman screaming for help. Carl, having moved to higher ground, initially struggled to locate her. After scanning the area, he spotted her clinging to a tree across the water. He immediately reassured her, saying, “I got ya, we’re going to get you some help, it’s going to be okay, just hang on.”

The woman, who had been in the river for approximately four hours, endured a terrifying ordeal. She described the sensation of being pulled under by debris in the water, likening it to a refrigerator trying to drag her down. The Jeter family, recognizing the urgency of the situation, quickly called emergency services.

Responding to the distress call, multiple rescue teams were dispatched, including a swift water rescue unit from Bernie, Texas, and game wardens from Texas Parks and Wildlife. The Jeters assisted in launching rescue boats into the turbulent waters to facilitate the operation. “You didn’t think about it, you just did what you needed to do to help,” said Josh Jeter, reflecting on the family’s instinctive response to the crisis.

Once rescued, the woman was brought to the Jeter home, where she was provided with shelter and comfort. Carl described her as being in shock, cut and bruised from her ordeal. Wrapped in blankets, she began to share her experience, revealing that she had been with her family when they entered the river around 4 a.m. and had been fighting for her life since.

The emotional aftermath of the rescue left a deep impression on the young Jeters, particularly on Jude, who expressed fear at witnessing such a traumatic event. Despite the chaos, the family’s prompt actions undoubtedly saved a life.

As the community continues to rally around the survivor and her family, the Jeter family has been hailed as heroes for their bravery and quick thinking. Local authorities are currently assessing the situation, hoping for a positive outcome for the woman’s family, who remains unaccounted for following the flood.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of severe weather and the importance of community vigilance and cooperation during emergencies.