27-year-old Julian Ryan made a heroic sacrifice, giving his life to save his fiancée, their two young children, and his mother as sudden, catastrophic flash floods swamped their trailer home near the banks of the Guadalupe River.
According to Ryan’s fiancée, Christina Wilson, water began flooding their home shortly after 4 a.m.
“It just started pouring in and we had to fight the door to get it closed to make sure not too much got in,” Wilson told WLOX. “We went back to the room and started calling 911.”
With water rising to waist level, Julian made a desperate decision. He punched through a window to create an escape route, an action that severed a major artery in his arm. Despite repeated 911 calls, first responders were delayed and unable to arrive in time.
As he bled heavily, Julian gathered his strength to comfort his loved ones one last time.
“By six, my husband was dead. He had lost all of his blood. He looked at me and the kids and my mother-in-law and said, ‘I’m sorry, I’m not going to make it. I love y’all,’” she said.
Within minutes, the water surged in with such force it tore the trailer apart—allowing Christina, the children, and his mother to escape to safety. Ryan’s body was found hours later as floodwaters receded.
Friends and family describe Julian as a warm, selfless man with an infectious smile. “He is the hero in this story,” said sister Connie Salas.
A GoFundMe was launched to help the bereaved family:
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the devastating news of the unexpected and tragic passing of our beloved Julian Ryan on July 4th, 2025. Julian, his fiancé, kids, and mother were awakened when water came rushing into their home. Julian jumped into action to protect and save his family and get them to safety.
Julian gave his life for his family, passing as a true hero. While his family is eternally grateful for his sacrifice, they are shattered by their loss. Julian was a beloved son, father, fiancé, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend to so many, and his sudden departure has left an unfillable void in all our lives.
Julian was a cherished son and devoted parent and fiancé who was dedicated to his family. He was known to have an infectious laugh and unwavering kindness. He touched countless lives with his humor and will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
This unimaginable tragic loss has left his mother, fiancé, brothers, and sister facing not only immense emotional pain but also significant unforeseen financial burden. We are hoping to help alleviate the unforeseen financial burdens that come with such a sudden tragedy.
No one is ever prepared for such a loss, especially one that comes so suddenly. Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant difference and will be profoundly appreciated as the family navigates this heartbreaking time. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this campaign with your networks. Your prayers, thoughts, and support mean the world to us.
Thank you for your kindness and generosity during this incredibly challenging time.
WATCH:
27-year-old man dies while saving his fiancée, children & mom during the Texas flash floods
“I’m sorry, I’m not going to make it. I love y’all,” were Julian Ryan’s last words.
When Ryan realized 911 wouldn’t be able to save them in time as water rushed into the home, he punched… pic.twitter.com/SPAM3OSNgL
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) July 6, 2025
