Gush of water knocked boy into arroyo

After finding out a 16-year-old fell into the arroyo during a rainstorm, AFD Station 13 went to the rescue. The pulled the man from the arroyo at Morningside Drive and Cutler Avenue. (AFD photographer Joseph C. Stone)

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Thirty-three firefighters rescued him Wednesday

Updated: Thursday, 29 Jul 2010, 11:09 AM MDT
Published : Thursday, 29 Jul 2010, 10:59 AM MDT

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - At 3 p.m. on Wednesday, a 16-year-old boy was crossing the arroyo at Juan Tabo Boulevard and Candelaria Road when there was not much water. However, his second step proved to be quite dangerous.

An enormous gush of water knocked him off his feet and carried him west down the arroyo. A friend of his called 911 to let them know what happened.

Albuquerque Fire Department rushed to the scene and set up at many locations to attempt to rescue the boy. At Morningside Drive and Cutler Avenue, Station 13 personnel launched a throw bag into the water and the young man was able to grad hold of it. He was then pulled to safety.

Driver Julian Gallegos and Firefighter Wade Garvin were the two main rescuers that save the boy. Gallegos was taken to Presbyterian Hospital with minor cuts to his hands. The rescued boy was also taken to Presbyterian in stable condition with numerous cuts and bruises, according to AFD.

Battalion Commander Kerry Horton led the rescue.

Thirty-three firefighters rescued him Wednesday

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