Former UFC Fighter William Patolino Emerges as Hero Amid São João de Meriti’s Devastating Floods
São João de Meriti, a municipality in the Baixada Fluminense region, faced one of the worst floods in its history, leaving a trail of destruction and despair. Amidst the chaos, a former UFC fighter, William Patolino, rose to the occasion, risking his own life to become a hero in the flood-ravaged community.
Patolino, 32 years old, found himself in the midst of an unprecedented crisis as floodwaters engulfed the city. The ex-UFC combatant, describing the situation as something he had never witnessed before, acted on instinct when alerted about people trapped in their homes.
Without hesitation, Patolino leaped into the water, swimming against the current to rescue over 15 individuals in imminent danger. Despite losing his iPhone during the rescue mission, he emphasized that material loss pales in comparison to the tragedies faced by others, including the loss of homes and lives.
While Patolino and his friends successfully saved more than 15 people, they lamented being unable to rescue everyone. In the aftermath of the floods, several bodies were discovered, further underscoring the magnitude of the tragedy.
Expressing deep solidarity with the affected families, Patolino called upon the help of a higher power, stating, “We need God for everyone.” The flood in Rio de Janeiro has resulted in a staggering toll of 12 lives lost, with the North and Northwest regions bearing the brunt of the devastation.
Governor Cláudio Castro extended his sympathy to those affected and announced immediate measures for assistance and reconstruction. As the community grapples with the aftermath of the catastrophe, Patolino’s selfless acts stand as a testament to the resilience and compassion that can emerge even in the face of nature’s harshest challenges.