Chicago Man Risks Life to Save Baby From Lake Michigan

Last week in Chicago, a routine walk along the lakefront turned into a terrifying rescue of a baby that no one there will ever forget.

Chicago's New Hero

On February 18, 2025 a Chicago man named Lio Cundiff was taking a walk along Lake Michigan, when he saw an 8-month-old baby in a stroller blown into the freezing water by a wind gust, and his response has the entire nation talking.

Block Club Chicago reports:

Cundiff, 30, was taking a walk along the lake at Belmont Harbor before his shift at Oak and Honey, 3124 N. Broadway. He was on the phone with his aunt to wish her a belated happy birthday — but then he heard a woman scream and saw high winds propel the stroller into the lake.

Witnesses said the stroller hit the water and began drifting away from the dock. The baby, still strapped in, was dangerously close to being pulled farther out into the frigid lake, and that's when Lio Cundiff made a split-second decision: he jumped in...even though he cannot swim.

There's no doubt about it, Lio is a hero, and many other people agree.

GoFundMe for Lio Cundiff

Thankfully, this story has a happy ending not only for the baby, but for Lio as well, who was hospitalized for an elevated heart beat following his plunge into the freezing water.

Lio Cundiff is home from the hospital now, but even heroes can't save themselves from paying medical bills. Lio's best friend has started a GoFundMe to help cover lost wages while Lio is home, recovering.

Lio is a comedian in Chicago and works as a server, living paycheck to paycheck. Missing work while he recovers means he’s not only facing mounting hospital expenses but also struggling to cover his everyday costs. He’s always been the first to make others laugh and lend a helping hand, and now he needs our support more than ever.

Lio recently posted an update on the GoFundMe that says:

 My heart is doing well and I’m just processing the last couple of days! I’m feeling overwhelmed and thankful to everyone who has supported me and donated!

Most of all I want to thank the people that responded so quickly to help me get the baby out. I don’t think either of us would be here without their help, I really am beyond thankful! It was a true team effort! Stay safe out there and keeping looking out for one another.

This world needs so many more people just like you, Lio! Thank you for your bravery and for doing whatever it takes to save a stranger.