Teen Lifeguard Saves 10-Year-Old in California Surf Rescue

A teenage lifeguard rescued a 10-year-old boy who was pulled into the ocean by sudden swells at Seabright Beach in Santa Cruz, California. The incident, captured on video, showed the lifeguard diving into a wave and pulling the child to safety after the boy was swept about 15 yards offshore.

The boy’s father, Sumit Rai, said he learned of the rescue while speaking with his children on the phone and later watched the video. He expressed deep gratitude, noting the lifeguard’s willingness to enter dangerous conditions.

“He ran into that water despite those conditions that are deadly… He’s risking his own safety,” Rai told the Associated Press.

The lifeguard, 16-year-old Ryder Williams, said he saw the child lose his footing in ankle-deep water, radioed for help, and then entered the surf. He described the difficulty of the rescue, stating the first wave left the boy limp and the currents strong.

“After the first wave, I was unable to pull him out because he was limp and the waves were pushing so hard,” Williams said.

California State Parks, which employs the lifeguards at the beach, confirmed the boy suffered no serious injuries and was released after a medical evaluation. The family reported the child experienced sand inhalation and ongoing psychological effects.

President Donald Trump posted on social media about awarding Williams a “high civilian honor” and extending a White House invitation, though the family had not yet received official confirmation.

Williams thanked his fellow lifeguards and emphasized that rescuing people is part of his job.

“I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to return the child to his family safely… This is my job and I love what I do,” he said.