A California firefighter named Ryan Lopez earned praise for comforting a 4-year-old girl at a car crash scene near San Diego. A big rig had crossed into oncoming traffic, colliding with vehicles carrying a mother, her two daughters, and another adult. While the mother and one daughter were treated for injuries, Lopez, holding the uninjured 4-year-old, provided solace. He cradled her, gave her water, and kept her safe, as captured by a news camera. Lopez, a paramedic and a new father himself, explained, “She really just wanted to hang on and just feel safe.” He considers it part of his job and believes any first responder would do the same.

The crash resulted in tragic fatalities, including the mother and daughter in one vehicle and severe injuries to the 6-year-old girl in the other. However, the 4-year-old received only minor injuries. Readers expressed their support and admiration for Lopez’s compassionate actions. One commenter said, “God bless the fireman for his kindness. God bless all.” Another noted, “That’s being humble on top of being a hero.”