Some heroes wear capes; others simply act when it matters most. Adem Qorri, a 40-year-old father from Florida, proved himself a hero in the most selfless way possible—giving his life to save a child.
Qorri was spending a sunny day at Anclote River Park with his kids and his friend Dale Furness when tragedy struck. Furness’s six-year-old son Carson was swept away by a powerful riptide. Without hesitation, Qorri dove into the water to rescue the boy.
Though he managed to get Carson to safety, Qorri lost consciousness in the water. A nearby boater pulled him out and rushed him to the hospital, but it was too late. Qorri was pronounced dead—a devastating loss for his family and community.
Furness shared an emotional tribute on Facebook, writing: “I will forever remember you! The love you had for my family and I will never be forgotten.” Carson’s mother, Mallory Hutchinson, expressed her deep gratitude, saying, “There are no words that will ever replace him.”
She recounted the terrifying moments leading up to the rescue. Carson had wandered to a sandbar drop-off, and her older son tried to help but got into trouble too. Furness and others managed to pull the boys to safety, but Qorri’s life could not be saved.
Mallory tearfully reflected on Qorri’s sacrifice: “My six-year-old wouldn’t be here without him. He’s a hero.”
Qorri’s wife, Blerta, described him as the “best dad ever.” Choking back emotion, she added, “He would do it again without thinking. He is a hero now and forever.”
The community quickly rallied around Qorri’s family. A GoFundMe campaign, organized by his cousin Migena, surpassed its $50,000 goal in just three days. “This poor family lost their husband and father yesterday,” Migena wrote. “Adem passed away a hero while saving a child. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.”
Qorri’s story is made even more poignant by his journey. He fled Kosovo as a refugee during the Balkan conflict of the 1990s and built a new life in America, running an auto shop in New Port Richey. His family is now considering laying him to rest in his homeland.
Adem Qorri’s life was a testament to bravery and selflessness. While his loss is immeasurable, his legacy will live on in the lives he touched—and the child he saved.
Our hearts are with Qorri’s family and friends during this unimaginable time. Share his story and honor the heroism of a man who truly gave everything.
