A 27-year-old father is being hailed as a hero after he was killed in the Texas floods while trying to save his family. Julian Ryan died on July 4 after punching through a window to help his fiancée, two young children, and mother escape rising floodwaters in their Ingram, Texas home.

At 4 a.m., Julian and Christinia Wilson were suddenly awakened by water pouring into their home. “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 KHOU. Within 20 minutes, the water was already up to their knees.

They quickly moved to the back room with their 6-year-old and 13-month-old children, along with Julian’s mother. When it became clear that help wasn't coming fast enough, Julian took desperate action. He punched through a window to make a way out for his loved ones. But in doing so, he severed an artery in his arm, nearly cutting it “clean off,” Wilson said.

Despite the injury, Julian helped get his family to the roof. He used every last ounce of his strength to make sure they had a chance. But as the blood loss became too great, he looked at his family and spoke his final words: “I’m sorry, I’m not going to make it. I love y’all.”

By 6 a.m., Julian was gone. His body wasn’t recovered until hours later, after the water had finally receded.

“Julian gave his life for his family, passing as a true hero,” his brother Joseph Rounsley wrote on a GoFundMe page. “While his family is eternally grateful for his sacrifice, they are shattered by their loss.”

Julian’s fiancée, Christinia, described him as “the best father” and "a happy person who was never above helping people, no matter what it cost.” Her own mother, Pamela Baker, said, “He was not just their hero, but mine. He loved [Christinia] and their babies with all of him.”

Julian’s sister, Connie Salas, echoed that sentiment, saying, “He died a hero, and that will never go unnoticed.”

More than 130 people were killed in the devastating floods that began on July 4th across central Texas, including at least 36 children. The tragedy has sparked calls for better warning systems. “If we had heard sirens,” Christinia said, “we would have left. We would have gone anywhere else.”

Julian Ryan’s story is one of love, courage, and sacrifice. In a moment of crisis, he didn’t hesitate. He chose to protect his family, giving his life so they could live. He may be gone, but his heroism will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved him.