Teenage Rookie Lifeguard Rescues Boy in Heavy Santa Cruz Surf

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