Fargo native, UND grad hailed a hero after saving child from Pennsylvania park monorail

HERSHEY, Pa. — A Fargo native is receiving international attention for his heroic actions at an amusement park in Pennsylvania.

John Sampson, who calls it “dad instincts,” saved a young boy who became stuck high above the ground at Hershey Park in central Pennsylvania.

Sampson grew up in Fargo and graduated from Shanley High School in 2004 before earning a degree from the University of North Dakota. He now lives in the suburbs of Philadelphia with his family, where he works as a veterinarian.

The rescue, which took place Saturday evening, Aug. 30, has drawn global media coverage.

“Absolutely bonkers, never in my mind would I fathom it getting this big,” Sampson said.

At the time, Sampson was watching his family’s stroller and belongings while his wife and three children were on a ride