Shelby Carter, a 21-year-old mother from Illinois, is being remembered as a hero for saving her newborn daughter during a devastating house fire in February 2017. Trapped on the second floor of her burning home, Shelby strapped her 10-day-old baby, Keana, into a car seat and dropped her safely from a window, ensuring her daughter’s survival.

Firefighters arrived to find Keana unharmed on the ground. Tragically, Shelby was found dead in an upstairs bedroom, having succumbed to smoke inhalation. Her selfless final act deeply moved the local community and emergency responders.

Shelby had just celebrated her 21st birthday the day before and shared joyful photos of her newborn on social media. Her family and friends described her as loving and devoted, especially in her new role as a mother.

A GoFundMe campaign raised over $30,000 to support her daughter and family. Shelby’s bravery continues to inspire many, a powerful reminder of a mother’s love and sacrifice.