Dad of 10-year-old boy saved by heroic teen lifeguard speaks out on death-defying rescue
Key Points:
- A 16-year-old lifeguard, Ryder Williams, rescued a 10-year-old boy from dangerous waves at Santa Cruz's Seabright Beach, an act praised nationally and by President Trump.
- The boy’s father, Sumit Rai, described the rescue as a “miracle” and expressed deep gratitude to Ryder, highlighting the extreme danger with multiple people initially attempting to help.
- Rai revealed family tensions, noting the boy's mother was absent during the incident and has a history of mistreating the children, with trauma counselors now involved.
- Ryder’s family emphasized his humility and dedication, sharing that he downplayed the rescue as “all in a day’s work” and has performed multiple rescues during his lifeguard shift.
- President Trump announced plans to honor Ryder with a high civilian award at the White House, possibly inviting the rescued boy and his family.