Remembering Manuel Pinzon: A Grandfather’s Final Act of Heroism in Dacula, Georgia
DAWSONVILLE, Ga. — The community of Dacula, Georgia, is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Manuel Pinzon, a 77-year-old outdoorsman, father, and grandfather, who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the ones he loved most—his twin 8-year-old granddaughters, Isa and Gabi. Described by his family as a “hero through and through,” Pinzon’s final moments exemplify the deep love and selflessness that defined his life.
According to his son-in-law, Jason Krause, the tragedy unfolded on Wednesday during what began as a simple, joy-filled day. The twins were visiting their grandfather’s home, which sits on a quiet patch of land bordered by a one-acre stretch of forest—an area Pinzon cherished and often explored. That morning, Isa and Gabi stumbled upon a baby deer in the woods behind the house. Excited by their discovery, they ran back to tell their grandfather.
Rather than rush back into the woods, Pinzon suggested they pause for lunch and then go see if the fawn was hurt or needed help. It was a moment that revealed not only his deep appreciation for nature but also his careful, grounded approach to life—a quality that had earned him the love and admiration of his children, grandchildren, and all who knew him.
A Sudden, Tragic Turn
Shortly after their meal, the three returned to the woods to check on the deer. As they walked beneath a large tree, a massive limb suddenly cracked and fell. Without hesitation, Manuel Pinzon threw himself over his granddaughters, shielding them from the impact. The branch struck him instead, inflicting fatal injuries.
Emergency services were called, but despite efforts to save him, Pinzon succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Thanks to his quick action and sacrifice, Isa and Gabi walked away unharmed—physically, at least. The emotional weight of their grandfather’s love and loss will remain with them, forever etched into their hearts.
“He Died a Hero”
Speaking to ABC News, Jason Krause recounted the events with visible emotion. “He was a protector until the very end. He died a hero. We’ve always known him to be brave and loving, but this—this was something beyond,” Krause said. “He gave everything to keep them safe. What greater love can there be?”
Those who knew Manuel Pinzon describe a man who lived a life of purpose, simplicity, and unwavering love for his family and the natural world. A retired landscaper and lifelong outdoorsman, Pinzon spent much of his time teaching his grandchildren how to garden, identify wildlife, and respect the environment.
Neighbors recall seeing him tending to his yard or walking the woods with the twins, often pointing out flowers, birds, or deer tracks with patient enthusiasm. “He was the kind of man you’d want in your life. Gentle, kind, and full of wisdom,” one neighbor said.
A Life of Quiet Bravery and Lasting Legacy
Manuel Pinzon emigrated to the United States decades ago in search of a better life for his family. In doing so, he built a legacy of hard work, compassion, and sacrifice. His children and grandchildren were the center of his world—and now, his final act of bravery will be the story they pass on for generations.
In the days since the tragedy, an outpouring of support has flooded in from friends, family, and strangers alike. A memorial is being planned at the family’s home, where Pinzon spent his final moments surrounded by the love he so freely gave.
The family has requested privacy as they process this immense loss but shared that anyone wishing to honor Manuel’s memory can do so by planting a tree or donating to wildlife conservation efforts—two causes close to his heart.
Honoring the Heart of a Grandfather
There are heroes who wear uniforms, and then there are heroes like Manuel Pinzon—quiet, steady, and defined not by medals, but by love and sacrifice. In a split second, he chose his granddaughters’ safety over his own life. And in doing so, he not only saved two precious young girls—he reminded us all of the extraordinary power of love in its purest form.
May he rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in knowing that his final act was one of immeasurable courage and devotion.