Identified: Man Who Tragically Lost His Life in Santa Barbara County Creek
Downey Man Identified After Tragic Incident in Santa Barbara Creek
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – A Downey resident who died after being swept into a creek during a severe storm has been identified as 61-year-old Rosauro Vasquez. The incident occurred at Maria Ygnacio Creek near North San Marcos Road just before noon on Saturday.
Family members reported Vasquez missing after he was caught in the rising waters. Authorities quickly activated a rescue operation involving multiple agencies, including the Santa Barbara County Fire Department and the Sheriff’s Search and Rescue teams, alongside air support from both Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.
Despite the efforts, Vasquez was located deceased around 1:50 p.m. near the intersection of San Marcos Road and Via Parva.
The recent storms brought over three inches of rain to Southern California, creating hazardous conditions throughout the region. In light of these events, local law enforcement is reminding residents to avoid all rising waterways, including creeks, rivers, and drainage channels, during inclement weather.
Officials stressed that water levels can rise suddenly, and currents may be deceptively strong. “If you encounter a flooded roadway or hazardous water conditions, turn around – don’t drown,” they advised.
