On February 4, a man fell off a bridge into the river in Xiandao City (Hubei Province, China). His daughter on the riverbank was extremely worried, shouting for help.
A viral video on social media shows Yilibai riding a white horse as it plunged into the river to rescue the drowning victim.
The horse swam over 40 meters while Yilibai held the reins with one hand and pulled the man with the other. Liu Hangzhou, a nearby resident, helped pull the victim ashore. Fortunately, the man was unharmed and safely returned home with his family.
Yilibai rides his horse to save the drowning man (Photo: Douyin).
The white horse, named Bailong (“White Dragon”), was seven years old. Yilibai said that the horse had never been in water before, but he didn’t have time to think—only to act quickly to save the man.
“When I gave the command, it followed seriously and cooperated fully. Bailong played a key role in the rescue,” he said.
Afterward, Bailong developed a fever and grew weak over several days. On the evening of February 10, the horse suddenly stopped eating and couldn’t defecate. According to its owner, the animal continued to suffer from a prolonged fever.
Local authorities sent a veterinarian to treat Bailong, diagnosing it with intestinal obstruction—a common but often fatal condition in horses. It was given medication to reduce inflammation and improve its health.
The brave horse Bailong being honored at an awards ceremony (Photo: Baidu).
However, on the evening of February 11, the horse passed away. Yilibai, who had cared for Bailong for over a year, was heartbroken.
“Bailong and I went through so much together. Whenever anyone mentions its passing, I can’t help but cry,” he said.
According to a friend, Yilibai treated the horse like his own child and couldn’t bear saying goodbye.
The rescued man expressed guilt over Bailong’s death. Yilibai clarified that Bailong died from illness, unrelated to the rescue.
Local livestock authorities handled Bailong’s remains appropriately after receiving consent from its owner. Officials announced plans to erect a statue of the horse near the riverside to honor its bravery.
Bailong suffered from fever and intestinal issues before passing away days later (Photo: Baidu).
A local chamber of commerce for Xinjiang entrepreneurs living in Xiandao City announced they would select another white horse to gift to Yilibai.
The city government awarded bravery honors to Yilibai and others involved in the rescue. Each person is expected to receive 3,000 yuan (over $420 USD).
The passing of Bailong deeply moved social media users across China.
“Bailong was so brave! Its spirit will continue to inspire us forever,” one user wrote.
“I’m moved to tears. Bailong will always be remembered,” another added.
