Community supports hero’s food truck after flood rescue

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS) - A food truck owner is being called a hero after helping save a driver trapped in rising water during Monday’s flash flooding on South Kingshighway.

The rescue happened in front of the Dirt Cheap liquor store, where video shows floodwater rushing over a vehicle, with only part of the roof still visible above the water.

Witnesses and family members say Miguel Morales, who runs the nearby food truck Miguel’s Taco’n Madre, jumped in to help first responders pull the driver out.

“Miguel saved him, pulled him out,” said Kevin Edwards, the brother of the man who was rescued.

Edwards came to the food truck on Tuesday to thank Morales in person, giving him a hug and supporting his business by buying a meal.

“I mean, you can’t thank somebody enough for saving your loved one. I’m very grateful,” Edwards said. “Very thankful, grateful that he jumped in action and did everything he could to save him.”

The story spread quickly on social media, and by Tuesday, customers formed a long line at the food truck to show their support.

Cape Girardeau Fire Captain Scott Bennett was among those who stopped by, praising Morales for taking a serious risk to help.

“We’ve seen the reports on social media. We’ve heard from the guys that were actually here on call,” Bennett said. “Understand Miguel took great personal risk to himself to get the individual out of the vehicle.”

Bennett added that supporting the business was an easy choice.

“Having eaten here before, we know the food is fantastic. So thought it was a great opportunity to come out and support,” he said.

Edwards said he’s still processing how close his brother came to dying, and how much it means that someone stepped in.

“It was very hard,” he said. “I’m very grateful.”

According to the National Weather Service, Cape Girardeau recorded 3.31 inches of rain in one hour, between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Monday.