A Mother’s Day Miracle on the Colorado River -Bullhead City

What began as a pleasant Mother’s Day outing on the Colorado River quickly transformed into a dramatic rescue scene when emergency crews responded to a potential drowning involving three children near the 1200 block of Riverfront Drive.

Around 4:15 PM, Battalion Chief McCabe reported that a 12-year-old boy, who could not swim, had been swept away by the river's current while playing with friends. As panic ensued, a group of quick-thinking local boaters, including Trevor & Brea Chiodini, the owners of Laughlin River Tours, were out on their personal boat when they heard frantic cries for help.

Trevor and Brea Chiodini - Owners of Laughlin River Tours

Alec Williams, one of the rescuers, recounted the harrowing experience: “Mother’s Day feels a little different this year. I was in the middle of editing a video from my competition before we took off on our boat ride.”

As the family drifted along the river, Williams’ sister heard yelling from the shore.

“We normally don’t go upriver, but we turned around to check out the commotion. The kids were waving and shouting that someone was drowning.”

When they arrived at the scene, Williams immediately dove into the water.

“I saw the body on the bottom of the river, over 10 feet down, and I grabbed the lifeless body off the riverbed,” he recalled.

After swimming back to the surface with the boy, Alec’s stepdad Trevor began chest compressions while they floated to the docks. Williams’ mother took over after a few minutes, and soon enough, the boy began responding. When paramedics arrived, miraculously, the child was alert and able to walk away to receive further medical attention.

Alec Williams getting on the boat.

Local officials praised the swift and courageous actions of the bystanders who saved the boy’s life. In addition to Williams and his family, Brea Chiocini and Fire Board Member John Martinolich were also credited for their significant roles in the rescue operation.

“This incident reminds us of the crucial importance of wearing life jackets whenever we're on the river, regardless of age or swimming ability,” said Bullhead City Mayor Steve Diamico. “Life jackets can be life-saving tools, and we urge everyone engaging in river activities to prioritize safety.”

The community has come together in appreciation for the heroic efforts that prevented what could have been a tragic outcome.

Additionally, the Bullhead City Morning Kiwanis Club plays a significant role in promoting water safety, donating thousands of dollars each year to help parents enroll their young children in swimming lessons.

For more information on their history and programs, parents can visit this link. Swimming lessons for children are currently being offered at the Bullhead City pool.

Reflecting on the day, Williams expressed his gratitude and hope.

“Thank goodness this day turned out the way it did. I hope parents teach their kids how to swim and always wear their life jackets, as the current doesn’t care how good a swimmer you are.”

In a touching conclusion to a day of intense emotions and lessons learned, Williams encouraged everyone to cherish their loved ones:

“Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms in my life—hug your kids and enjoy your day. Today truly reminded us of the greatest gift we can share: life.”

This miraculous rescue not only saved a young boy’s life but also reinforced the importance of vigilance, preparedness, and community spirit along the riverbank. Alec, Trevor and Brea checked on the boy at the hospital last night and he was doing well.

Here is the link for the swimming lessons offered at the city. Please teach your children water safety.