‘I felt so close to him,’ says teen who saved man from tent fire at Hamilton encampment

A heartwarming story of bravery and friendship has emerged from a tragic incident in Hamilton, Ontario. Zeke Fox, a 17-year-old teenager, risked his life to save Shawn Goodwin from a tent engulfed in flames at Bayfront Park.

On the night of January 5, Fox sprang into action when he saw black smoke billowing from a tent at the park. Without hesitation, he rushed to the scene, called 911, and pulled Goodwin to safety as the fire raged around them. Goodwin, who had been living in the park for about two years, suffered severe burns on his chest, back, and arm but was grateful to be alive thanks to Fox’s quick thinking.

Since the harrowing incident, Fox has visited Goodwin several times at Hamilton General Hospital’s burn unit. Their bond has deepened, with Fox describing Goodwin as family after going through such a traumatic experience together. Goodwin, in turn, expressed his admiration for Fox’s courage and expressed a desire to maintain their newfound friendship.

Despite facing challenges such as homelessness and addiction, Goodwin remains hopeful for a brighter future. He has been on the city’s housing waitlist for nearly a decade and dreams of finding a secure place to call home. His father, George Goodwin, who resides in Cornwall, Ontario, has been in regular contact with his son and hopes for his recovery and stability.

Fox, who sustained minor injuries during the rescue, has been actively fundraising to support Goodwin’s recovery. Despite his young age, Fox has shown maturity and compassion beyond his years. He is determined to pursue a career in law enforcement and views his heroic act as a stepping stone towards that goal.

The touching story of Zeke Fox and Shawn Goodwin serves as a reminder of the power of kindness and selflessness in the face of adversity. Their unlikely friendship blossomed from a moment of crisis, showcasing the potential for connections to emerge in the most unexpected circumstances. As Fox prepares to graduate from high school and embark on a new chapter in his life, his bond with Goodwin will undoubtedly remain a meaningful part of his journey.