A heartbreaking tragedy in California—A 2-year-old boy swept away by raging floodwaters has been found dead after nearly 20 hours of desperate searching.
Authorities say little Xavier Padilla Aguilera, a nonverbal autistic child, was inside a car with his father Thursday evening in Barstow when flash floods suddenly struck. Their vehicle was overwhelmed by the rushing water, separating father and son.
Rescuers managed to save the father, 26-year-old Brandon Padilla Aguilera, who was stranded on a small island created by the flood. He was rushed to the hospital, treated for injuries and infection, and later released. But Xavier never made it out.
On Friday afternoon, officials confirmed the boy’s body was discovered in a flood control channel in San Bernardino, miles from where he was last seen. The discovery devastated the family, who had been pleading for prayers and support throughout the search.
The deadly floods were triggered by the remnants of Tropical Storm Mario, which unleashed heavy rain, mudslides, and dangerous conditions across Southern California.
Community members are mourning the tragic loss, while investigators continue to review how the vehicle was swept away and whether more safety measures are needed to prevent future disasters.
California Flood Tragedy: Missing 2-Year-Old Found Dead
