A 36-year-old penal officer in Juiz de Fora, Brazil, tragically lost his life in an attempt to save his wife and neighbors during severe storms that struck the area on the night of September 23. The officer, identified as Reinaldo Neiva Ferreira, was buried under mud after he successfully helped his family and residents escape from a building impacted by a landslide in the Paineiras neighborhood. Reports indicate that he was unable to escape in time and was ultimately overwhelmed by the debris.

The search teams found Ferreira's body more than 24 hours after the tragic event, during a rescue operation in the early hours of September 25. Ferreira's death has garnered significant attention, highlighting the dangers faced by first responders during natural disasters. Friends have described his heroic actions in the face of adversity, emphasizing his commitment to helping others at the cost of his own life.

In a statement, the Penitentiary Department of Minas Gerais (DEPEN-MG) expressed profound sadness over Ferreira's death, noting that he had been serving in the role since May 2017. This incident serves as a painful reminder of the challenges posed by extreme weather events in Brazil, as well as the selflessness of individuals who risk their lives for the safety of others, underlining the urgent need for disaster preparedness and community support in vulnerable areas.