16-Year-Old Rookie Lifeguard Rescues Boy Swept Offshore in 8-to-10-Foot Surf at Santa Cruz Beach

On July 28, 2026, 16-year-old rookie California State Parks lifeguard Ryder Williams rescued a 10-year-old boy swept roughly 15 yards offshore at Seabright State Beach in Santa Cruz, California. Waves reached 8 to 10 feet. Several beachgoers joined the two-minute effort, captured on bystander video. No injuries were reported.