Rookie lifeguard speaks out after dramatic water rescue [ZRQ5VVZ2EfN]

Health Updated on August 09, 2026 EDT — Published on August 09, 2026 EDT

Sixteen-year-old rookie lifeguard Ryder Williams is speaking out after rescuing a 10-year-old boy amid dangerous ocean conditions in Santa Cruz. Surrounded by treacherous waves, Ryder refused to let the boy go, ultimately saving his life. Ryder's dad says heroism is in his son's DNA.