On January 14, 2026, at approximately 4:09 PM, John Brittingham became an unexpected hero when he rescued two toddlers walking alone on a busy highway in Brevard County, Florida. A quick thinking citizen was the first responder to a horrifying rescue scene on Rt. All of this was caught on camera, showing the speed of their actions to save Marianna.
Brittingham, a father of five and a grandfather to one, was heading home in the southbound lane. One day, he found himself nearly run over by toddlers playing in the middle of the road. Recognizing the grave threat they were facing, he instantly pulled over and jumped out of his vehicle to help save them. The young children had disappeared from their fenced-in yard. Her family didn’t know they had disappeared until Brittingham intervened.
I was scared to death. That’s the concern that Brittingham admitted. Because if anything happened to them my whole life would be screwed up. His swift actions protected everyone and the only person injured in the incident was him. Because of him, the kids returned home to their mom unharmed.
The incredible video footage of that dramatic rescue has been shared around the world and even aired on ABC News – a testament to Brittingham’s selfless and heroic act. His community members are hailing him as a local hero. People respect and honor his bravery in placing himself personally at risk to defend delicate, precious children.
Witnesses have hailed Brittingham’s bravery and instinct to act decisively. Through his quick response, he didn’t just save the young children in need that day; he brought national attention to the power of community awareness and accountability.
