DeLand Mother Honored for Heroic Sacrifice Saving Child in St. Johns River
A DeLand mother was honored by dozens of family, friends, and community members in Orange City on Thursday evening. She died while saving her child's life in the St. Johns River.

Orlando Daytona Beach Melbourne, FL, July 23, 2026 —
A DeLand mother was posthumously honored Thursday evening for her final act of bravery in saving her child’s life. The ceremony, attended by dozens of family members, friends, and community members, took place in Orange City.
The woman lost her life while ensuring her child’s safety in the St. Johns River. Specific details regarding the circumstances of the incident, including the exact date and time it occurred, the child’s age, and the sequence of events leading to the tragedy, were not immediately available.
The event brought together a significant number of individuals to commemorate the mother’s selfless actions. Attendees expressed their grief and paid tribute to her courage during a difficult time for the community.
Further information about the mother’s identity, the specific location on the St. Johns River, and any official recognition or memorial services planned was not provided in the summary.
Story summarized from the original created by FOX.35.Digital.Staff@fox.com (FOX 35 Digital Staff) on www.fox35orlando.com, see more information here.