Parkland Hero Anthony Borges Blocked Classroom Door and Saved 20 Students

On Valentine’s Day 2018, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, became the scene of a tragic mass shooting carried out by 19-year-old Nikolas Cruz. As the gunman opened fire, chaos erupted in classrooms and hallways. Among the students was 15-year-old Anthony Borges, whose quick thinking and bravery would turn him into a real-life hero.

As the shooter approached his classroom, Anthony made a split-second decision to block the door with his body, using his own weight to hold it shut and shield his classmates inside. This act prevented the gunman from entering the classroom, effectively saving at least 20 students from harm. During the attempt to hold the door, Anthony was shot five times—bullets tore through his back, legs, and shattered his left thigh bone.

The Hero’s Resolve: Battling for Life and Others

Despite being critically wounded, Anthony remained determined to protect his peers until help arrived. His mind and spirit persevered through multiple surgeries—he underwent at least nine to treat the severe injuries, including the removal of a third of one lung. Miraculously, his resolve and medical care allowed him to survive.

Classmate Carlos Rodriguez recounted that Anthony was the last of about 20 students to enter the classroom and was locking the door when the shooter fired at him. Anthony’s protective instinct was clear: “None of us knew what to do. So, he took the initiative to just save his other classmates,” said Carlos.

His father, Royer Borges, expressed profound pride, stating simply, “He’s my hero.” Anthony himself, in later interviews, humbly described his courage as simply doing what was necessary and feeling fortunate to be alive.

The Aftermath: Recovery and Advocacy

Anthony’s recovery was a monumental challenge physically and emotionally. As he endured pain and the threat of long-term disabilities—such as limited movement in his toes—he also grappled with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Nonetheless, his positive attitude and family support remain cornerstones of his healing journey.

Beyond recovery, Anthony has become an advocate for positive change, focusing on preventing future tragedies and inspiring youth worldwide. After facing such trauma, he remains dedicated to “being a better person and changing the world for every kid,” emphasizing resilience and hope over anger or despair.

Legal and Social Impact

Anthony’s family was critical of the school system’s failures to protect students and pursued legal action against the Broward County School District, settling a lawsuit for ongoing medical expenses and damages. This legal step forms part of broader efforts to address school safety reforms and accountability in the wake of Parkland.

The shooting cast a spotlight on the urgent need for better security and mental health resources in schools. Anthony’s story, along with countless others from that day, continues to fuel the national conversation on gun violence and youth safety.

Fascinating Trivia About Anthony Borges and the Parkland Shooting

• Anthony was shot five times trying to hold a classroom door closed, with a bullet narrowly missing his liver and multiple shattering bones in his legs.
• Despite his injuries, he was discharged from the hospital roughly six weeks after the shooting, marking him as one of the last victims to leave medical care.
• Anthony’s action saved at least 20 students from possible harm, a testament to his bravery and quick thinking under unimaginable pressure.
• The Parkland shooting resulted in 17 victims killed and several others wounded; Anthony’s testimony and survival have made him a well-known figure in school safety advocacy.
• Anthony was a soccer player before the shooting and was told by doctors he could eventually return to play again.
• His story has gained recognition internationally, including invites to global events celebrating courage and resilience.

Final Thoughts: A Beacon of Bravery Amid Tragedy

Anthony Borges’s story embodies extraordinary courage and humanity in the darkest of times. His intuitive decision to shield his classmates with his own body not only saved lives but set an example of selflessness and strength for communities worldwide.

While the scars and trauma of that day endure, Anthony’s resilience and commitment to positive change offer hope and a call to action. His journey reminds us that even in the face of tragedy, heroes emerge who inspire others to stand strong.

If Anthony’s remarkable story moved you, share it to honor his bravery and support ongoing efforts to protect students and promote peace in schools.

Sources & Further Reading:
NBC News: Anthony Borges, Parkland teen who was shot shielding classmatesnbcnews
CBS Miami: Parkland Survivor Anthony Borges Settles Lawsuit With Broward Schoolscbsnews
ABC News: Stoneman Douglas shooting victim Anthony Borges leaves hospitalabcnews.go
Campus Safety Magazine: The Heroes and Victims of the Parkland School Shootingcampussafetymagazine
Wikipedia: Parkland High School Shootingwikipedia
FC Barcelona News: Anthony Borges, hero of the Florida shooting invited to Barcelonafcbarcelona