Man Killed in Victorville Flooding Identified as Michael Williams, 41
VICTORVILLE, California (VVNG.com) A 41-year-old man died after his vehicle was swept into a wash while driving down a residential street.
On Friday, February 17, 2017, Michael Williams, 41 of Victorville, was traveling down Pebble Beach Drive when rapid currents spewing over the street forced his silver Mercedes into the wash, along with another vehicle.
A Swift Water Rescue Team was dispatched to assist in rescue operations after the vehicles became partially submerged in water.
The Sheriff’s helicopter (40 King) successfully pulled one man to safety when that person exited their vehicle and sat on their car roof.
Williams was unable to exit his vehicle and was pronounced deceased on scene after his vehicle was fully submerged in water.
“He was new to the area and would have never known how dangerous these streets can get. I just wish they would have closed the road, but it was still open,” said Joel Williams, Michael’s wife.
“He’s leaving behind two children, an 11-year-old and a 16-year-old, it’s going to be a tough to tell them.”
Residents who live in the area have expressed concern over the infrastructure during times of rain.
“I have lived here for 5 years, and every time it rains the waters rise really high and kids sometimes try to play in it,” said Jose Vargas Hernandez.
He also said that his neighbors have talked to the City of Victorville about building a bridge to prevent a tragedy from happening. “Someone had to die before they do something about it.”
