Brave Rescue in Vietnam: Driver Saves Child on Highway 1

Photo courtesy of VN Express

In a dramatic rescue, Vietnamese driver Ly Van To dislocated his ankle to save a 2-year-old girl who wandered onto National Highway 1 near Hue. The incident occurred on April 4, as To, 31, was traveling from Quang Tri to Da Nang. He spotted the girl stepping into traffic and quickly acted to prevent a tragedy.

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To was driving south when he noticed the child on the road shoulder at kilometer 860. As the toddler began crossing the busy, four-lane highway, To braked and sounded his horn, hoping to alert other drivers. He instinctively pulled over, but the girl moved faster than expected, prompting him to leap from his truck.

Despite dislocating his ankle, To ran and grabbed the child just in time. An oncoming car narrowly avoided hitting them by swerving. After ensuring the girl was with her family, To continued his delivery. The daring rescue spread widely on social media in Vietnam, earning him praise for his quick reflexes.

Traffic Police in Phu Loc commended To, assuring him there would be no fine for stopping on the highway, which typically incurs penalties. Major Nguyen Anh Hung confirmed his team called To to thank him. To expressed relief, stating he was concerned about potential fines but felt his actions were necessary.

The girl's parents were in Ho Chi Minh City, leaving her in the care of her older sister. She had opened their house door and walked onto the road unnoticed. To, who regularly drives between Da Nang and Hanoi, said he was surprised by the reaction and unaffected by a fake Facebook account using his name.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Khaosod · 06 Apr 2026