BARSTOW, CA. (Pain In The Pass) >> A search is continue for a 2-year-old boy who was swept away by floodwaters Thursday evening in Barstow.
On September 18, 2025, at approximately 7:14pm, the Barstow Police and Fire Departments were dispatched to the area of West Main Street, West of Lenwood Road regarding a vehicle that had been swept off the roadway by floodwaters. The vehicle was swept into a wash north of West Main Street.
Due to the circumstances surrounding this call for service, San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway Police, California Highway Patrol, City of Barstow Public Works, MCLB Fire, Desert Ambulance, and San Bernardino County Fire’s Swift Water Rescue Team were requested to provide assistance. In a short amount of time numerous volunteers from the Desert Recovery Group and additional citizen volunteers assisted in searching for the subjects and vehicle.
As police and fire were responding, it was reported that the occupants had been separated from the vehicle and were continuing to travel north with the floodwaters. The occupants of the vehicle were identified as Brandon Padilla Aguilera, age 26 and his son, Xavier Padilla Aguilera, age 2. Brandon and Xavier were separated as they were being swept away by the floodwaters.
Brandon Aguilera was located on an island that had been created by the floodwaters. Brandon Aguilera was rescued by Barstow Fire Department personnel and taken to Barstow Community Hospital where he was later released.
The search for Xavier is ongoing.
Update Xavier has been found deceased following extensive search after flooding incident. Barstow Police Department has said in a statement, it is with profound sadness that the city confirms the discovery of a young child who lost their life in the recent flooding incident on Main Street at Lenwood Road. After more than 20 hours of extensive search and rescue operations, emergency responders located the child’s body this afternoon. Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time. We extend our deepest condolences to those affected by this tragedy.
We want to acknowledge the tireless efforts of our Barstow Police, Barstow Fire Protection District, San Bernardino County Sheriffs’ Department, Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway Police, California Highway Patrol, City of Barstow Public Works, MCLB Fire, Desert Ambulance, and San Bernardino County Fire’s Swift Water Rescue Team search and rescue teams and emergency responders, and volunteers who worked around the clock in challenging conditions. Their dedication and professionalism during this operation exemplify the best of our community’s spirit.
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