A dramatic rescue unfolded in Santee, California, when sheriff’s deputies sprang into action to save an 11-year-old autistic boy who had wandered onto a bustling freeway. Captured in intense drone footage shared by the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office, the heart-pounding moment shows officers racing against traffic to prevent a tragedy.
The incident occurred on March 9, after the non-verbal child suddenly bolted out of a local supermarket where he had been shopping with his family. Moments later, he was spotted crouching dangerously close to the on-ramp of State Route 52.
With cars speeding by just feet away, two deputies are seen urgently pursuing the boy as he edges onto the freeway shoulder. Without hesitation, they manage to reach him and safely guide him away from danger, ultimately reuniting him with his worried loved ones. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
Authorities praised the quick-thinking deputies for their swift and compassionate response, crediting their training and teamwork for turning what could have been a tragedy into a safe homecoming.