The tragedy occurred at Yellowstone National Park, which covers 2.2 million acres and sees millions visit yearly.
Although the site is beautiful, it can also be dangerous – especially regarding its hot springs.
Hot springs are natural springs heated by geothermal energy from the Earth’s interior. The water can be extremely heated so it’s important to be cautious when approaching.
Tragically, David Alan Kirwan suffered a horrific death at the popular tourist attraction.
The 24-year-old, from La Cañada, California, visited the location with his friend, Ronald Ratliff, and Ratliff’s dog Moosie in 1981.
During their walk, the canine ran towards the Celestine Spring before leaping into the boiling water.
The water the canine jumped into gets as hot as 200° and immediately, the animal cried out in pain.
Hearing Moosie’s distressed yelps, Kirwan ignored bystanders’ warnings in hopes of saving his friend’s dog from a horrifying ending.
When warned not to jump in, the 24-year-old called back: “Like hell I won’t!”
He took two steps into the spring before diving headfirst into the boiling water to rescue the dog.
It’s said Kirwan vanished under the water, letting go of Moosie.
Eventually, Kirwan returned to the surface. Ratliff rushed to his friend’s aid, getting second-degree burns on his feet in the process.
Eyewitnesses reportedly heard the 24-year-old saying: “That was stupid. How bad am I? That was a stupid thing I did.”
Quickly, it became apparent that Kirwan had suffered extreme injuries.
Snopes reports that the 24-year-old turned blind and when a park visitor tried to remove one of his shoes his skin came off with it.
He had suffered third-degree burns on 100% of his body yet somehow, he managed to survive for several hours despite his gut-wrenching injuries.
Kirwan died the following morning at Salt Lake City Hospital. Heartbreakingly, Moosie also didn’t survive the terrifying incident.
The man’s tragic ending is an example of overcoming the instinct of self-preservation and facing death in the pursuit of saving another. The 24-year-old is remembered as a hero by many.
