A 2-year-old boy swept away by floodwaters Thursday evening in Barstow, California, was found dead Friday afternoon, authorities confirmed.
Xavier Padilla Aguilera’s body was located around 2:44 p.m. PT in the San Bernardino County Flood Control channel south of the Mojave River, according to Barstow Police. The department expressed deep condolences to the family and community in a statement.
The boy and his father, 26-year-old Brandon Padilla Aguilera, became separated from their vehicle as rising floodwaters carried them north. The father was rescued, treated at Barstow Community Hospital, and released.
Xavier, who his family said has autism and is nonverbal, was last seen wearing black pants, a black shirt, and black-and-white Nike shoes.
Flood waters
The tragic event followed a day of severe weather and powerful thunderstorms across Southern California. In Oak Glen, ABC News obtained footage showing a massive mudslide devastating the area.
A coordinated multi-agency response was launched, involving the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway Police, California Highway Patrol, and the San Bernardino County Fire’s Swift Water Rescue Team. Local volunteers and community members also joined the rescue efforts.
Barstow Police announced that counseling and support services are available for those impacted by the tragedy. The Barstow Police Department and San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office continue their investigation into the incident.
