In a gripping tale of survival, 59-year-old security guard Howard faced the unthinkable when a major pipe burst at the New Colgate Powerhouse in Yuba County. On Friday the 13th, he thought he was hearing rumblings from an earthquake, but the reality was far more dire. A wall of water swept him 35 feet down into the icy depths of the Yuba River, turning a normal workday into a fight for his life.
Howard’s wife, Kathy, found herself in a nightmare as she waited for her husband’s usual call. When that call didn’t come, a grim reality set in, especially after she heard from Howard’s boss that he was missing. After three harrowing hours, rescue teams finally located him, but not before he had coded for eight minutes during the rescue efforts. With serious injuries, including a collapsed lung and broken ribs, Howard’s recovery was just beginning, but he and Kathy’s celebration of his survival is a reminder of how heartbeats can be miraculous.
As they watched footage of the mudslide together, a sense of relief washed over them. Kathy’s unwavering support and Howard’s incredible spirit bring a hopeful twist to a terrifying incident. It seems fate had a plan for him after all, even if it did involve a plunge into a tumultuous river. Just goes to show that even on a Friday the 13th, miracles can happen.
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
