A Georgia resident, George Etheredge, found himself in a life-threatening situation when his all-terrain vehicle (ATV) carrying a 25-gallon tank of weed killer flipped over into a pond on his property, pinning him underwater. Etheredge was unable to free himself due to the weight of the vehicle and his injuries, which left him barely able to lift his head above the water to breathe.
Etheredge’s desperate cries for help were heard by three teenagers who were fishing nearby. The boys, Bentley Culpepper, 14, Griffin McDonald, 16, and Colt Hartfield, 15, rushed to Etheredge’s aid. Despite their efforts, they were unable to lift the ATV off Etheredge. They quickly sought help from a neighbor, who was able to lift the vehicle and free Etheredge.
Etheredge, who was trapped underwater for approximately 30 minutes, recounted the harrowing experience. He said he was only able to keep half his head above water, just enough to breathe and call for help before submerging again. His primary concern during the ordeal was the thought of his two sons and his desire to see them again.
The neighbor, Glenn, was hailed as a hero by Etheredge, who likened him to ‘Superman’ for his strength and quick action. Glenn was able to flip the ATV off Etheredge in one attempt, an act that Etheredge described as if he was lifting an air mattress.
Etheredge sustained minor injuries, including a fractured shoulder and disc, but has since fully recovered. He expressed his gratitude to the three teenagers, referring to them as his “three little angels”. He hopes that their bravery and quick thinking will be recognized and celebrated by the community.
The teenagers also reflected on the incident. Culpepper stated that he believed divine intervention led them to Etheredge at the right time. McDonald described the situation as frightening, seeing Etheredge trapped and yelling for help.