Child lost in aftermath of California flash flood, vehicle carried away
In the aftermath of severe weather that brought powerful thunderstorms to Southern California, a heart-wrenching incident has unfolded in the town of Barstow. A 2-year-old boy named Xavier Padilla Aguilera has gone missing, and a massive multi-agency response has been launched to find him.
Xavier was traveling with his father, Brandon Padilla Aguilera, 26, when their vehicle was swept away by floodwaters. Xavier is described as wearing black pants, a black shirt, and black and white Nike shoes.
Local volunteers from the Desert Recovery Group and community members have joined the search effort, working alongside teams from the San Bernardino Sheriff's Department, Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway Police, California Highway Patrol, and San Bernardino County Fire's Swift Water Rescue Team. The public is encouraged to use bright lights to help search through the dirt and mud.
Xavier's aunt, Leanna, has requested help from the community to aid in the search for Xavier. Brandon Padilla Aguilera was later rescued and released from Barstow Community Hospital.
Unfortunately, no further information is provided about the Utah trucker arrest or the 29-degree refrigerated trailer mentioned in earlier reports.
As the search continues, anyone with information about Xavier's whereabouts is urged to contact local authorities immediately. Police have suspended the official search until daylight on Friday.
This is a developing story, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Our thoughts are with Xavier's family and friends during this difficult time.
