Volusia County, Fla. – In a remarkable act of bravery, an 8-year-old boy is being praised for saving his father’s life after discovering him unconscious inside their home on Tuesday afternoon, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies say the child’s quick actions — calling 911 and administering Narcan — helped reverse a suspected heroin overdose, preventing a tragedy that could have ended in his father’s death.
Young Boy’s Heroic Actions Save His Father
According to an official release from the Volusia Sheriff’s Office, the boy found his father, identified as Daniel Johnson, 44, unresponsive in their garage. Acting on instructions previously given by his father, the child immediately called 911 and administered Narcan, a life-saving medication used to treat opioid overdoses.
First responders arrived moments later and transported Johnson to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. Deputies later confirmed that the father survived the overdose, thanks to his son’s quick thinking and courage.
Father Had Instructed Son on Overdose Response
In a shocking revelation, deputies said Johnson admitted to smoking heroin earlier in the day. Anticipating the possibility of an overdose, he reportedly told his son exactly what to do if “something happened” to him — including how to use Narcan.
“Daniel Johnson, 44, told deputies he smoked heroin earlier in the day in the garage and instructed his son on what to do if something happened to him,” the sheriff’s release stated.
Charges Filed Against the Father
Following his medical treatment, Johnson was taken into custody and now faces multiple charges, including:
- Child neglect
- Contributing to the delinquency of a minor
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
Authorities say the case highlights both the heroism of the child and the dangerous environment he was forced to endure.
Deputies did not immediately confirm where the boy is now staying but noted that child protective services have been notified and are involved in the ongoing investigation.
Sheriff Commends Boy’s Bravery
In an emotional statement, Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood praised the boy for his extraordinary courage under traumatic circumstances.
“I want to commend the bravery of this young boy who, at just 8 years old, was forced into a situation no child should ever have to face,” said Sheriff Mike Chitwood. “His courage undoubtedly saved his dad’s life, but it’s tragic that he has to experience such trauma at such a young age.”
Sheriff Chitwood also reminded residents about the importance of Narcan availability and community awareness around substance abuse prevention. “No child should have to learn how to save a parent from an overdose,” he added.
The case has sparked community concern and renewed conversations about opioid addiction and family impact. Advocates say that while Narcan saves lives, prevention and education remain crucial.
Do you believe schools and communities should provide Narcan training for children and families affected by addiction?
Share your thoughts in the comments below, and tell us how the community can better support families struggling with substance abuse and recovery.
