Nick Bostic, a former pizza delivery driver, found himself at the center of renewed attention after Donald Trump Jr. and Elon Musk highlighted his heroic rescue of four children from a burning house in Lafayette, Indiana. The dramatic incident, captured on police body camera footage in July 2022, resurfaced online, sparking discussions about recognizing Bostic's bravery.
The video shows Bostic fearlessly entering the inferno, guiding an 18-year-old woman, a baby, and two teenage girls to safety. Remarkably, he then returned into the blazing house to locate and rescue a 6-year-old girl trapped inside. Emerging through a second-story window with the child, Bostic prioritized her safety, cushioning her fall with his own body before collapsing onto the sidewalk.
A July 11, 2022, house fire in Lafayette, Indiana. (Lafayette Police Department)
Nick Bostic hands a 6-year-old girl he rescued from a house fire off to a first responder before collapsing on the ground. (Lafayette Police Department)
Medics work on Nick Bostic after he ran into a house fire in Lafayette, Indiana, to rescue a 6-year-old girl. (Lafayette Police Department)
Bostic expressed his surprise and gratitude for the renewed attention, particularly from Trump Jr. and Musk. He identified himself as a staunch Trump supporter and expressed his hope for the incoming administration's economic leadership.
Reflecting on the night of the fire, Bostic described a series of events he attributes to divine intervention. He explained that he had left his home for a drive following a disagreement with his girlfriend and happened upon the burning house. Despite not having his phone and initial attempts to flag down help proving unsuccessful, he entered the house without hesitation. He shared his belief that a higher power guided him to be in the right place at the right time.
Bostic, now 27, has since worked various jobs, including security and as a mechanic, while also running his own lawn care business. While he received an application to join the fire department after the rescue, he remains hesitant due to his desire to spend time with his young son. He also expressed humility about the praise he has received, emphasizing his respect for first responders and military personnel.
Touched by the online support, Bostic initiated a fundraiser for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause close to his heart. He shared his personal connection to the hospital, revealing that they reconstructed his eye after a childhood accident. Now, he feels a strong calling to give back to the community.
