A teenage boy in Louisville, Kentucky, is being hailed as a hero after he stepped in to protect a woman and her 12-year-old daughter from a man allegedly harassing them. The incident occurred during the annual Thunder Over Louisville fireworks show, highlighting the courage of 15-year-old Da’Jon Hayes-Burr, who was stabbed while defending the pair.
The Incident and Heroic Act
On Saturday, Kristyn Stasel and her daughter were leaving the fireworks event when they encountered a man, later identified as Vasilis Sakellaridis. The man allegedly made an inappropriate sexual comment to Stasel’s daughter, prompting the mother to react by loudly accusing him of being a “pedophile.” Instead of retreating, Sakellaridis charged toward them.
Hearing Stasel’s screams for help, Da’Jon, who was nearby with a group of teens, rushed to intervene. According to a GoFundMe page created for him, Da’Jon “stepped in to protect a 12-year-old girl and her mother from a dangerous situation involving a pedophile.” In a confrontation that followed, Sakellaridis reportedly tried to swing at the teens but was thrown to the ground.
Despite the teens’ efforts to restrain him, Sakellaridis returned to attack, stabbing Da’Jon in the stomach before continuing his pursuit of the mother and daughter. Authorities quickly intervened, with police officers and military personnel subduing Sakellaridis after a struggle.
Da’Jon’s Recovery and Community Support
While Da’Jon’s injuries were serious, he is expected to survive, although his recovery will be both physical and emotional. The GoFundMe for Da’Jon states that the toll from the attack has been immense, but the support of the community will help him through the challenging journey ahead. Stasel praised Da’Jon for his bravery, calling him “a hero” and emphasizing how his actions saved them from potential harm.
Legal Charges Against Sakellaridis
Vasilis Sakellaridis, 45, has been charged with first-degree assault, first-degree fleeing or evading police, second-degree disorderly conduct, and alcohol intoxication in a public place. During his arraignment, he pleaded not guilty to the charges. He is currently being held on a $25,000 cash bond.
