In a deeply emotional segment broadcast just moments ago, David Muir, anchor of ABC World News Tonight, delivered a heart-wrenching report from Texas, where the state is grappling with unprecedented flooding. As floodwaters continue to ravage communities, Muir shared the story of a married couple, Jack and Linda Thompson, who, after 35 years of marriage, found themselves in the most terrifying fight of their lives.

The Thompsons, trapped by the rising floodwaters in their home, fought desperately to escape the torrents. But as the waters rose around them, it became a race against time to survive. What happened next would reveal the depths of their love and resilience, as Jack refused to let go of his wife when the floodwaters threatened to pull them apart.

The Couple’s Desperate Struggle for Survival

David Muir, reporting live from the heart of the flood zone, recounted the harrowing ordeal the Thompsons faced. The couple, in their 60s, had been living in a small, rural community in Texas when the floodwaters rapidly rose. With no time to waste, they attempted to make their way to higher ground, hoping to escape the worst of the flood.

But as they waded through chest-high water near their home, the force of the current overwhelmed them. Jack and Linda were swept off their feet by the powerful surge. In a moment of sheer panic, Jack grabbed onto a nearby tree, desperately clinging to the trunk in an attempt to hold onto his wife, who was being pulled further and further by the relentless floodwaters.

“We were fighting to stay alive,” Jack later told Muir, his voice trembling with emotion. “I couldn’t let go of her. I just couldn’t.”

Muir’s voice cracked as he continued to recount the events: “In that terrifying moment, Jack Thompson clung to the tree with everything he had, refusing to let go of his wife, Linda. The floodwaters were so strong, pulling them both under, but Jack wouldn’t release her hand. He held onto that tree, hoping against hope that they would make it through together.”

The Power of Love: A Heart-Stopping Rescue

The couple’s ordeal lasted what felt like an eternity. But miraculously, just as the floodwaters began to swallow them, local rescue teams arrived in the nick of time. The rescuers, who had been tirelessly working to reach stranded residents, managed to pull the Thompsons to safety. Jack and Linda were exhausted, terrified, and physically drained from the ordeal, but they had survived.

Muir, clearly moved by the story, interviewed the Thompsons after they were brought to a safe area by the rescue team. The couple, visibly shaken, shared their experience with the viewers, recounting how they never gave up hope, even when the floodwaters seemed insurmountable.

“I don’t know how we made it out,” Linda said, holding back tears. “But I know that I’m here because of Jack. He never let go of me, even when the water was pulling us apart. I’ve never felt more loved than I did in that moment.”

Jack nodded, his voice thick with emotion. “I promised her I would never let go. She’s the love of my life, and I wasn’t going to let anything take her from me.”

David Muir’s voice trembled as he shared his reflections on the couple’s remarkable survival. “In moments of crisis, we see the true depth of human connection. Jack and Linda Thompson’s devotion to each other, their refusal to let go even in the face of such overwhelming danger, is a story that will stay with all of us.”

A Community in Crisis: The Larger Picture

The Thompsons’ story, while deeply personal, is a reflection of the larger devastation caused by the Texas floods. Thousands of people across the state have been displaced, and many more have lost their homes, businesses, and loved ones. The floodwaters have created life-threatening conditions, and the ongoing rescue operations are a race against time.

Muir highlighted the tireless efforts of the local authorities, emergency responders, and volunteers who have been working around the clock to rescue stranded residents and provide aid to those affected. Despite the overwhelming destruction, Muir emphasized the strength and resilience of the Texas community, with neighbors and strangers alike coming together to help one another in the face of disaster.

“We’ve seen heartbreaking stories of loss and survival, but we’ve also witnessed extraordinary acts of courage and selflessness,” Muir said, speaking to the resilience of the people of Texas. “Jack and Linda Thompson’s story is a reminder of the lengths we will go to for the ones we love. And it’s also a reminder of the strength that can be found in even the darkest moments.”

A Message of Hope Amid the Devastation

As Muir wrapped up his report, he reflected on the broader message that the Thompsons’ story conveyed. In a world often filled with negativity and uncertainty, the love and determination shown by Jack and Linda serve as a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges.

“No matter how dire the circumstances, love can be a guiding force,” Muir said. “Jack and Linda’s love for each other helped them hold on when everything around them seemed to be falling apart. Their story reminds us all of the importance of perseverance and the power of love in even the most trying of times.”

While the journey to recovery for Texas will undoubtedly be long and difficult, the story of the Thompsons serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the deep bonds that connect us all. As the rescue efforts continue, the people of Texas are showing that, even in the face of unimaginable loss, they will rebuild and move forward together.