A DeLand mother has died after saving her 4-year-old son from the St. Johns River in a heroic rescue attempt Saturday afternoon, according to the Volusia Sheriff’s Office.
Law enforcement responded to Ed Stone Park in DeLand, Florida, at approximately 4 p.m. on July 18, 2026, after witnesses reported that a mother and child were in the river.
Authorities said an initial investigation found that the child had dropped a toy over a fence near the river and fell into the water while trying to retrieve it. His mother, identified as 43-year-old Nicole Grayson, immediately jumped into the river to save him.
Witnesses said Grayson struggled to keep her son above the water while a nearby boater was called over for help. The boater threw two life preservers to Grayson and her son, allowing the 4-year-old boy to be safely rescued onto the boat without injuries.
Another witness entered the river and helped lift Grayson onto the boat before beginning CPR until emergency responders arrived. Grayson was transported to a nearby hospital, where medical staff continued life-saving efforts. Despite those efforts, she later died in the intensive care unit.
Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood and the Volusia Sheriff’s Office thanked the bystanders who assisted in the rescue and extended condolences to Grayson’s family and friends.
The incident has left the DeLand community mourning the loss of a mother whose final act was one of courage and love. Nicole Grayson’s actions saved her child’s life, and her sacrifice will be remembered by those touched by her story.
The investigation and review of the incident remain ongoing.
