Gu Shunming, a Hai'an resident, saves a grandfather and his two granddaughters from a sinking car. [Photo/WeChat account: w-haian]

On Oct 9, the list of heroic citizens for the third quarter of 2024 was released in Beijing, with 62-year-old Hai'an resident Gu Shunming honored for saving a grandfather and his two granddaughters from a sinking car.

The incident occurred on July 25, when Gu returned home after grocery shopping. As he passed a river on South Fengshan Road, he saw a black car veer off the road and plunge into the river, trapping the passengers inside. Gu jumped into the water without hesitation and swam towards the vehicle using a life ring thrown by bystanders. He opened the car door and pulled out the driver and his two granddaughters.

With the help of other onlookers, Gu safely brought all three to land just as the car sank into the river.

Gu's quick thinking and bravery earned him a well-deserved place on the list of heroic citizens for his lifesaving actions.