Tomball, TX – What started as a walk through the park turned into a life-saving moment at Burroughs Park.
A young visitor is being recognized by Harris County Precinct 4 as a “Community Hero in Action” after helping rescue a turtle that may not have survived much longer without help.
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Deputy Martin with Constable Mark Herman’s Office was patrolling Burroughs Park, located in the 9700 block of Hufsmith Road, when a young visitor rushed over to alert her about a turtle in distress.
According to Precinct 4, the turtle had become tangled in string and was hanging from a tree just above the water.
Realizing the situation was serious, the young citizen didn’t hesitate. He carefully waded into the water, cut the turtle down from the tree, and brought it safely back to shore before asking Deputy Martin for help.
Working together, Deputy Martin gently held the turtle’s head down with a stick while the young rescuer who just happened to have pliers on hand, carefully cut away the string, piece by piece. Precinct 4 said the turtle’s head was badly swollen and it had very little energy, indicating it likely would not have survived much longer without their quick actions.
The turtle was successfully freed and released back into the pond because of their teamwork.
When Deputy Martin asked the young rescuer about his future plans, his answer made the moment even more special. He proudly shared that he hopes to become a game warden one day.
Precinct 4 said moments like this show how compassion, awareness, and teamwork can truly make a difference.