'Take My Brother First': Last Words of Hero Teen Who Sacrificed Life to Save Younger Brother

Bravery comes in all shapes and sizes, and one 13-year-old displayed extraordinary courage when it mattered most. He faced his fears head-on and saved his little brother's life. The self-sacrifice cost him everything.

Jordan Rice adored his little brother Blake. A few years separated them, but Jordan's love for his younger brother was unmatched. A tragic 2011 trip to Toowoomba, west of Brisbane, Australia, proved this.

The brothers and their mom, Donna Rice, never imagined that a flood would lead to their worst nightmare. Their car got stuck in shallow water, and the engine seized. Donna called emergency services, but water levels were rising, threatening their lives with every passing minute.

The Family Was Terrified of the Raging Waters

Emergency personnel told the family to stay put, but they were forced to climb onto the roof of their car to escape the raging floodwaters. Ten-year-old Blake was scared and unaware of the significant sacrifice his sibling would make for him soon.

Donna's partner, John Tyson, detailed the shocking ordeal and noted that many bystanders didn't assist the desperate trio. Thankfully, one local man stepped up to help.

They did their best to survive, clinging to a nearby tree for life, but they were no match for the strong current.

The Young Boy's Last Words

The man used a rope to move toward the family and wrapped it around himself to rescue them. He jumped into the dangerous waters and aimed to pull Jordan to safety. However, the older brother said four life-altering words:

"Save my brother first."

Despite his fear of the water and inability to swim, Jordan ensured his sibling's safety first. Little Blake was pulled out of the water and into a place of security, but something terrible happened when the rescuer returned to save Jordan and Donna.

The rope around the mother and child snapped, dragging them into the rushing water. They did their best to survive, clinging to a nearby tree for life, but they were no match for the strong current. It swept them away.

Tough Little Hero

Donna and her brave son tragically died during the ordeal, and their family was devastated by the significant loss. Everyone was heartbroken because of their shocking deaths, but the older brother's legacy lived on.

John could only imagine his family's fear and heightened emotions during the daunting experience, and although Jordan wouldn't be laid to rest with any fanfare, he was a true champion.

Jordan's dad was in awe of his son's courage and called him their "little hero" before he shared a beautiful tribute:

"Tough isn’t always loud and brash and brazen. Tough is sometimes four words quietly but firmly spoken by a boy who couldn’t swim as water threatened to submerge him. Everyone can be tough when the need arises."

The dad added: "May your wings take you to all the beautiful spots in heaven." By giving up his chance to be rescued, Jordan gave his brother the gift of life—Blake will undoubtedly remember this act of love forever.

The Worst Birthday Ever

The incident happened shortly before John's 46th birthday, but instead of having a party, he visited the mortuary. It was the worst birthday of his life, but hopefully, he found some solace knowing Donna and Jordan were together in heaven.

Jordan was a kid who loved being creative and wore unique outfits. He enjoyed music and drawing and undoubtedly had a fantastic future ahead of him. While his life was cut short, he died a hero.

The Online Reaction

Praise and applause streamed in for the young flood hero. Netizens thanked the precious angel for his sacrifice and sent their condolences to the heartbroken family:

"I'm sorry for the loss of your wife and child. He was a hero that knew true love for a brother. Prayers for you and your younger son."

- (Brenda Bevill) January 5, 2023

"I am sorry for your loss. Your son sacrificed his life for his brother. You can know how much he loved his family. Be proud of his sacrifice, and may it help you with your grief."

- (Cheryl Hallam) January 6, 2023

"Incredible loss for which you have my heartfelt sympathy. A wonderful son and brother. My heart also goes out to your surviving son. May he always know he was saved by love, and he deserved to be saved."

- (Julie Dawn Harris) January 5, 2023

"Prayers for his family. He was a true hero to lay down his life for his brother. God has a very special place in heaven for this hero. This is the kind of love we all should have for one another."

- (Judy Freeman) January 5, 2023

The tragic deaths of Jordan and his mother left a mark on their family forever. May they always remember their loved ones and know they are flying high with the angels.

Click here for a story about another brave brother. He went to rescue his younger sibling from a devastating flood, but things didn't unfold as he had hoped.