PENSACOLA, Fla. The Shrimp Basket family is celebrating one of its own this week after an extraordinary act of compassion and quick thinking by cook Donell, who likely saved the life of a loyal guest.

For more than a decade, the guest had visited the Shrimp Basket on N. Navy Blvd. in Pensacola every single day. When Donell noticed the regular had not come in for several days, something entirely out of character, he decided to check on him.

Donell went to the guest’s home, where he discovered the man had fallen and had been unable to get up. Donell immediately called for help and stayed with him until first responders arrived. Thanks to Donell’s intuition and care, the guest received the urgent assistance he needed.

The story first began spreading online after the guest’s niece shared what happened in a Facebook post on Friday, September 26, 2025. From there, it quickly went viral, with hundreds of shares and comments praising Donell for his compassion, calling him a hero, and celebrating the close-knit relationships fostered at Shrimp Basket.

A Community Story In a world where people can sometimes feel disconnected, Donell’s actions struck a deep chord. His compassion reminds us that restaurants are not just places to eat, they are communities built on relationships, care, and trust.

About Shrimp Basket Founded in 1993, Shrimp Basket is a family-friendly seafood restaurant known for Southern coastal favorites and heartfelt hospitality. With locations across the Southeast, Shrimp Basket takes pride in being part of the communities it serves, treating every guest like family.

Shrimp Basket Cook Becomes Local Hero: Saves Life of Longtime Guest