Chicago Man Jumps Into Lake to Save Baby Blown Into Water

Lio Cundiff risked his own life to rescue an 8-month-old girl after a gust of wind blew her stroller into Lake Michigan.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A good Samaritan in Chicago named Lio Cundiff jumped into Lake Michigan on Wednesday afternoon to save an 8-month-old girl after a gust of wind blew her stroller into the freezing cold water. Cundiff, who said he doesn't know how to swim, acted quickly to pull the baby from the water and get her to safety with the help of other witnesses.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the selfless actions of everyday citizens who are willing to put their own lives on the line to save others in emergency situations. Cundiff's bravery and quick thinking likely prevented a tragic outcome for the infant.

The details

Cundiff said he saw the stroller with the baby inside get blown into the lake at Belmont Harbor as the child's mother screamed. Despite not knowing how to swim, Cundiff jumped into the frigid water and was able to keep the baby's head above water until they were pulled to safety by other witnesses. The baby was taken to the hospital for observation and was reported to be in good condition.

  • The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon.

The players

Lio Cundiff

A good Samaritan in Chicago who jumped into Lake Michigan to rescue an 8-month-old baby after her stroller was blown into the water.

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What they’re saying

“I see a stroller getting blown into the lake and a lady screaming. I wasn't going to let that baby die.”

— Lio Cundiff

“I'm just glad the stroller was up and not face down. The baby dipped under a couple times, but I was able to keep her up.”

— Lio Cundiff

“She was breathing and crying when we got her out.”

— Lio Cundiff

“I hope she has a really cool future, and I'm happy I was there.”

— Lio Cundiff

The takeaway

Cundiff's selfless actions in jumping into the freezing lake to save the baby, despite not knowing how to swim, demonstrate the power of human compassion and the willingness of everyday people to risk their own safety to help others in need.