Three Schoolboys, Ages 12, 13 and 14, Save a Man’s Life After Refusing to Let Go Until Help Arrived

On September 21, 2017, three young friends in Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, became unlikely heroes when they spotted a man in distress on the other side of a bridge’s safety barrier, high above the busy A10 roadway.

Rather than walking away, 13-year-old Devonte Cafferkey and 14-year-old Sammy Farah immediately sprang into action, reaching through the railings to hold onto the man. One gripped his arm while the other held his leg, desperately trying to keep him safe.

As they struggled to hold on, the boys pleaded with him to reconsider, reminding him that he had family who cared about him.

“He just kept saying let go,” Sammy later recalled.

Meanwhile, their 12-year-old friend, Shawn Young, raced to find help.

Their courageous efforts soon drew the attention of 47-year-old Joanne Stammers, who stepped in to help despite living with a rare medical condition that increases her risk of blood clots. She took over from the boys, holding onto the man until police and firefighters arrived. Another passerby, James Higlett, also joined the rescue effort.

Authorities later said the man would almost certainly have lost his life without their intervention.

All five rescuers were recognized by the Royal Humane Society for their extraordinary bravery and compassion.

What makes the story especially remarkable is the ages of the three friends. At just 12, 13, and 14 years old, they found themselves facing a life-or-death emergency and chose to help a complete stranger.

They were just kids, but when someone needed them most, they refused to let go.

If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 in the United States or reach out to a local crisis helpline. Help is available, and no one has to face difficult moments alone.

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