Thomas Ruzzano was enjoying a movie date with his girlfriend at Mizner Park in Boca Raton when the theater began shaking with thunder and lightning. The eighteen year old had no idea that stepping outside would thrust him into a life or death situation. Eight inches of rain had transformed the parking garage into a dangerous flood zone, with water rising to two feet in some areas and trapping multiple drivers in their vehicles. Without hesitation, Thomas went from car to car, helping six or seven stranded people reach safety while others joined his rescue efforts.
The most harrowing moment came when they discovered an elderly man stuck in his seatbelt as water rose above his shoulders. Thomas and other helpers freed the confused man and brought him to a nearby restaurant to ensure he was safe and warm. The grateful survivors told Thomas how lucky they were that he had been there when disaster struck. Thomas credits his father for teaching him to trust his instincts and do what’s right, and his proud parents are celebrating their son’s incredible heroism on social media.
