A 12-year-old girl from California has been found alive after spending more than 24 hours lost in the Pacific Ocean near Laguna Beach, surviving strong currents and chilly waters before being rescued by a private boat.
Missing Child Sparks Massive Search
The girl, identified as Olivia Ortega, was last seen swimming near the shore at Laguna Beach around 4 p.m. on Tuesday. When she failed to return, her family alerted lifeguards, triggering a large-scale search involving the Coast Guard, local police, and volunteer boaters.
Authorities deployed helicopters, drones, and rescue swimmers to scour the coastline and open waters. The search continued through the night, with temperatures dropping into the low 50s Fahrenheit (around 10°C).
Rescue After 24 Hours
Around 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, a private fishing vessel spotted Olivia about 8 miles offshore, clinging to a piece of driftwood. The boat crew pulled her aboard and contacted the Coast Guard. She was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of mild hypothermia and dehydration but was reported in stable condition.
Olivia told rescuers she had tried to swim back to shore but was carried out by a strong rip current. She said she stayed calm by singing songs and thinking of her family.
Community Relief and Gratitude
The girl's parents expressed overwhelming relief and gratitude. “We are so thankful to everyone who helped bring our daughter back to us,” said her mother, Maria Ortega. “She is a fighter.”
Local officials praised the coordinated response. Laguna Beach Fire Chief Mike Smith said, “This is a remarkable outcome. We train for these scenarios, but to have a child survive 24 hours in the ocean is extraordinary.”
The incident has prompted renewed warnings about rip currents and ocean safety. Authorities urge beachgoers to swim near lifeguard towers and heed warning flags.
