Hero teen swimmer dubbed 'Aquaman' for stepping in to stop brawl on riverfront

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Hero teen swimmer dubbed
Hero teen swimmer dubbed 'Aquaman' for stepping in to stop brawl on riverfront

A swimmer in Montgomery, Alabama, went viral and was hailed as a hero after he swam to the aid of a security guard who was being attacked by a group.

The teenager, a 16-year-old boy named only as 'Aaren,' said he did "what I was taught to do," when he saw his colleague, a black man, allegedly attacked by a number of white people.

A statement released by a family publicist said Aaren was a "cherished young hero" and that people had "come together to celebrate the remarkable act of bravery and compassion" the young teen demonstrated.

"In the face of adversity, Aaren selflessly came to the rescue of a fellow colleague, showcasing courage beyond his years," the statement said. "We are immensely proud of his actions and the values he exemplifies, standing as an inspiration to us all.

"The overwhelming love and support pouring in from all corners of the state and surrounding areas have deeply touched Aaren. Your kindness and encouragement have shown him the power of unity and the warmth of a caring community."

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Hero teen swimmer dubbed 'Aquaman' for stepping in to stop brawl on riverfrontAaren 'will continue being a force for good in the world' (4ortunefame/Twitter)
Hero teen swimmer dubbed 'Aquaman' for stepping in to stop brawl on riverfrontAaren was seen swimming to his colleague's rescue (4ortunefame/Twitter)

The statement then thanked people for the “outpouring of love and support,” and said it was an act that showed “we can create positive change and uplift one another.” Aaren “will continue being a force for good in the world.”

In response, people on social media were quick to pay tribute to Aaren and one said "he showed courage way past his years," while another said he was "such a courageous young man."

The fight broke out at Montgomery Riverfront on Saturday and police said it has obtained four warrants in connection with the incident. "There’s a possibility more will follow after the review of additional video," Montgomery Police said.

In a statement, the police force added: "Last night, the Montgomery Police Department acted swiftly to detain several reckless individuals for attacking a man who was doing his job. Warrants have been signed and justice will be served.

Hero teen swimmer dubbed 'Aquaman' for stepping in to stop brawl on riverfront'Warrants have been signed and justice will be served,' police said (4ortunefame/Twitter)

"This was an unfortunate incident which never should have occurred. As our police department investigates these intolerable actions, we should not become desensitized to violence of any kind in our community. Those who choose violent actions will be held accountable by our criminal justice system."

Viral video of the incident shows a black man in uniform talking to a white man, before another white man strikes the dock worker in the head.

Another individual is then seen jumping off a riverboat and swimming to the dock to respond to the incident.

Benjamin Lynch

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