A heartbreaking search is underway in Barstow, California, after a 2-year-old boy went missing when his family’s vehicle was swept away by fast-moving floodwaters late Thursday evening.
A Sudden Turn of Events
According to relatives, Brandon Padilla was driving with his young son, Xavier, on September 18 when they attempted to cross a flooded stretch of Main Street. What appeared to be manageable water quickly turned dangerous as flash flooding surged through the area, pushing the car off the roadway.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene. Brandon Padilla was rescued and transported to a nearby hospital for treatment, but little Xavier — who had just celebrated his birthday earlier in the week and is on the autism spectrum — has not been found.
Family’s Desperate Search
Loved ones describe Xavier as a cheerful and curious toddler. “We’re worried sick and praying for a miracle,” one relative told local media. Volunteers, neighbors, and strangers have joined in the search, combing the riverbanks and flood channels in hopes of finding any sign of him.
Multiple outlets, including KTTV, KTLA, KABC and Victor Valley News, have reported on the story, which has drawn an outpouring of support across social media.
The Dangers of Flash Floods
Officials say this tragedy is a stark reminder of the risks posed by flash flooding. Even a few inches of moving water can lift a vehicle off the ground and carry it away. According to the National Weather Service, most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles when people try to drive through water on the road.
Rescue crews stress the importance of heeding warnings and road closures, reminding drivers that floodwaters can conceal sinkholes, debris, or strong currents that make them far deeper and more dangerous than they appear.
Authorities’ Ongoing Efforts
Search and rescue teams, equipped with boats, helicopters, and drones, are canvassing the area. They’re urging anyone with information or possible sightings to immediately contact local law enforcement. Officials are also asking drivers to respect road closures and avoid flooded areas, as additional rainfall could worsen conditions and hinder rescue efforts.
Community Rallies Together
In the meantime, friends and neighbors have organized vigils, shared missing-child alerts, and collected donations to support the Padilla family. “This community always comes together in times of need,” a volunteer said at one of the search sites.
Safety Tips for Drivers
Experts recommend that drivers never enter water covering a roadway, regardless of how shallow it looks, and always pay attention to flash-flood warnings and detours. Keeping an emergency kit — including a flashlight and first-aid supplies — in the vehicle can also be life-saving. If a car stalls in water, authorities say it is crucial to leave it immediately and seek higher ground.
How You Can Help
Anyone with tips that could assist search crews in locating Xavier is urged to call the Barstow Police Department or the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office. Updates will continue to be shared by local authorities and news outlets as the search progresses.
