Orange County Deputy Carries Support Dog From Brevard Flood

Orange County Deputy Benjamin Hayden carried a 4-year-old Labrador out of deep water in Brevard County on Wednesday. The animal, named Eris, was trapped with her owners inside their home in Lamplighter Village. The rescue occurred as floodwaters began to recede across the region after recent storms.

John and Heidi Edwards called 911 after rising water surrounded their property. The couple waited more than four hours for assistance. Hayden was among the first responders to arrive at the scene. He waded through the murky water, scooped up the dog, and guided the family to safety. The Edwardses were placed in a boat and transported to dry ground.

Eris serves as an emotional support animal for John Edwards, who manages strokes and dementia. Heidi Edwards described the dog as a constant companion for her husband. "She's just my buddy. She doesn't leave my side," John Edwards said. Heidi Edwards noted that the animal has been a source of comfort for the family. "She's an emotional support animal that definitely has been sent to us from God, no doubt!" she said.

Hayden has experience with similar rescues. In 2022, he gained public attention after saving a dog stranded in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. Heidi Edwards recalled the deputy's demeanor during the Wednesday rescue. "He did it with a smile on his face, and he said, 'This is what we train for, we got you,'" she said. The couple expressed a desire to thank him in person for his assistance during their difficult moment.

Lamplighter Village suffered severe damage during the recent flooding. Local residents reported losing vehicles, personal belongings, and parts of their homes. Mona James, a resident, described the volume of water as overwhelming. "I've just never seen so much water come in and take over a whole community as it did and take so long to go down," she said. Neighbors have begun delivering meals and supplies to those who could not evacuate.

Officials have not yet released an official estimate of the total financial or structural damage in the community. It is currently unclear how long displaced residents will wait before authorities deem homes safe for re-entry and repair. The Edwardses are focusing on the support they have received from neighbors and first responders. "We're hanging on to these little moments," Heidi Edwards said. "That's all we have."

Deputy Hayden was unavailable for an interview regarding the rescue at the time of reporting. The incident has drawn attention to the ongoing recovery efforts in Brevard County. Residents continue to assess the extent of the damage as water levels drop further.