27-Year-Old Minnesota Man Saves Kids, Driver on Runaway Bus

A Minnesota store clerk who helped rescue nearly 20 children after their school bus driver experienced a medical emergency was honored Thursday with a $1,000 surprise check.

Sheletta Brundidge arranged the unexpected tribute after learning about Ebro Ahmed’s quick response. To make the moment even more memorable, she brought in Brian Lepel, a professional performer known for portraying Superman, to help recognize Ahmed’s bravery.

“Not all superheroes wear capes; some are store clerks,” Brundidge told Storyful. “I wanted to do something to honor him, honor his sacrifice, his bravery, his commitment.”

Brundidge said Ahmed plans to invest the money, viewing the gift as “an opportunity to support his community.”

Ahmed had previously described the dramatic rescue in an interview with ABC News, explaining why he immediately stepped in to help the driver and the children.

“I really felt like it was my duty,” Ahmed said. “Also, too, it’s kids we’re talking about. Even if I were to die, it would still be worth it.”

Video from Ya Bricks Snacks and Tobacco showed what happened Monday. Ahmed was outside the convenience store when he spotted a school bus passing with its door open.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Mother Who Attacked Gubernatorial Candidate in Ad Once Killed Kittens

After looking inside, Ahmed said he saw the driver appearing to suffer a seizure. He raced to the bus, climbed aboard and pulled the emergency brake just seconds before the situation could become even more dangerous.

The scene was chaotic, with some children screaming while others remained calm. Ahmed recalled that two girls seated near the front helped him during the emergency. He tossed his phone and glasses to one of them and asked her to hold them.

Ahmed also said the long-running medical drama “Grey’s Anatomy” helped him remain focused while responding to the crisis.

“The show teaches you about what to do in situations that you never could see yourself in,” Ahmed said. He added that the series offered “some tips and tricks” he could carry with him for the rest of his life.

Saint Paul Public Schools confirmed to ABC News that a medical emergency occurred on the bus and that paramedics responded. No injuries were reported. Students were transferred to another bus and sent home, while school counselors checked on them Tuesday.

A spokesperson for Saint Paul Public Schools said the bus driver was later discharged from the hospital and was recovering at home.