Jakarta, ThedailyID — A cruise ship passenger has earned widespread praise after jumping into the sea to rescue an 84-year-old man who fell into the water at a port in Mexico.
The dramatic incident occurred while the Carnival Jubilee was docked at Costa Maya, a popular cruise destination on Mexico’s Caribbean coast.
According to Carnival Cruise Line, the older passenger slipped from the pier and fell into the water while attempting to return to the ship.
Witnesses quickly gathered near the scene as panic spread across the dock. Several people shouted for help as the man struggled to stay afloat.
At that moment, Arkansas resident Myron Tucker decided to act.
His wife, Amy Tucker, later shared details of the rescue on social media. She said her husband looked into the water and saw the older man floating face down and struggling to breathe.
Without hesitation, Tucker removed his shoes and jumped into the sea.
Amy said her husband reached the man, lifted him onto his shoulder, and kept his head above water until rescue personnel arrived.
Meanwhile, the ship’s crew attempted to assist by throwing a rescue rope into the water.
However, many observers credited Tucker’s quick response with preventing the situation from turning into a tragedy.
The victim’s daughter later revealed that her father could not swim. She said Tucker’s actions likely saved his life.
Speaking to local media after the voyage, Tucker downplayed his heroism.
He credited his parents for teaching him to care for others and said he could not stand by while someone was in danger.
After rescuers pulled the older passenger from the water, medical staff transported him to the ship’s health center for treatment.
Fortunately, the man recovered quickly. He later completed the remainder of the seven-night Western Caribbean cruise before disembarking in Galveston, Texas.
Tucker and his wife received praise from fellow passengers and crew members throughout the rest of the trip.
The cruise line also recognized the couple’s actions. Crew members left thank-you notes in their cabin and presented them with commemorative gifts.
In addition, the couple received a complimentary dinner at the ship’s steakhouse as a gesture of appreciation for Tucker’s bravery.
