In a dramatic rescue early Monday morning, a father and his child were saved from the roof of their nearly submerged car as flash floods swept through Arizona. The terrifying scene unfolded near Battaglia Road and Highway 87 in Eloy, about 65 miles south of Phoenix.
According to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, the man’s car became trapped after he reportedly drove past barricades blocking a flooded intersection. As water levels quickly rose, the pair were left clinging to the top of the vehicle, surrounded by fast-moving floodwaters.
Heart-stopping footage released by the sheriff’s office showed the father holding his child tightly as rescuers rushed to reach them. Multiple agencies, including the Eloy Fire District, Casa Grande Fire Department, and Pinal County Search and Rescue, responded to the call.
Firefighters used a ladder truck to pull the child to safety first, followed by the father. Both were treated for possible injuries but are expected to recover. Faces in the footage were blurred to protect their privacy, the Eloy Fire District confirmed.
Police Urge Drivers to Obey Flood Warnings
The Eloy Police Department reminded the public not to ignore road barricades during floods. “Please don’t ignore these signs. Keep yourself and your families safe,” officers said in a statement shared on social media.
Authorities emphasized that attempting to drive through flooded areas can be deadly, as just a few inches of water can sweep away vehicles. The department also thanked the rescuers who risked their lives to save others during the storm.
Community Reacts with Relief and Gratitude
Social media was flooded with emotional reactions following the rescue. One commenter wrote, “Thank God they were rescued. This could have had a much different outcome. Thank you to the men and women who answer the call daily.”
Another person added, “Regardless of the mistake that was made, the most important thing is that they are both alive.” Others praised the firefighters for their bravery and dedication.
Severe Storms Batter Pinal County
The National Weather Service in Phoenix issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Pinal County Monday, forecasting 60-mile-per-hour wind gusts and quarter-sized hail. The storm damaged trees, roofs, and vehicles before finally subsiding by Tuesday afternoon.
In addition to the Eloy rescue, firefighters also saved two other motorists trapped by floodwaters on Milligan Road east of Highway 87 later that evening.
As cleanup continues, officials are once again urging drivers to heed the warning: “Turn around, don’t drown.”
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