SAN ANTONIO – What could have been a tragic situation is now being called “an absolute miracle” by San Antonio emergency crews after a teen who got swept up in high waters in a drainage ditch was rescued alive.
The incident happened around 7:30 p.m. Thursday, in the 200 block of Newson, north of Woodlawn Lake.
SAFD Fire Chief Charles Hood said crews were called for a reported drowning in the area after recent rain showers.
When officials arrived, they found that a boy, 13, had slipped on an embankment while walking with his family and fell into high waters in a drainage ditch.
The boy didn’t resurface and more first responders were called to assist in the water rescue response.
The drainage ditch came to an end at Woodlawn Lake. Chief Hood said they had a boat on the lake, searching for the teen.
Police looked for him at his family’s home, in hopes he got out of the ditch and returned.
The teen traveled an estimated mile and a half from his original location in the ditch when he heard nearby emergency crews and saw their lights, according to Chief Hood.
He walked out and alerted first responders of where he was in the ditch. First responders were able to rescue the teen, who is alive and safe.
He had some bruises and cuts, but is in good condition overall. He was treated by EMS and was reunited with his family.
“This is very special,” Chief Hood said. “A lot of times, it’s a body recovery, so we’re extremely happy we were able to locate this kid.”