Tragedy in torrent: Bodies of missing boys found after flood
Wednesday's reports from Torrent in the Valencia province brought sad news — rescuers found the bodies of two boys who went missing on October 29. Izan Matías, 5 years old, and Rubén Matías, 3 years old, were swept away from their father, Victor Matías, by the flood. The search involved not only rescuers but also neighbors, volunteers, and divers, and had been ongoing for several days.
1:28 PM EST, November 13, 2024
On the day of the flood, the children were spending time with their father at home on the Curra estate when water suddenly entered their apartment, surprising the whole family.
The boys' father, Victor Matías, was also swept away by the violent current, but he managed to grab onto a tree, which ultimately saved his life.
Search concluded: Boys' bodies found
After several days of intensive searching, the bodies of Rubén and Izan were found in different locations a few miles from Torrent. Large forces were involved in the search, focusing in recent days mainly on the Pollo River, about 4 miles from the children's family home.
The boys' family, who came to perform the formal identification of the bodies, is shaken by the tragedy. The authorities in Torrent have provided them with psychological assistance.
My little angels, we finally found you. Two stars shine brighter in the sky — wrote a family friend, David Garcia, on social media.
Social support and solidarity
The story of Rubén and Izan shook the residents of Valencia, as well as all of Spain. Support flowed from many directions, as emphasized by the boys' uncle, Iván.
I am immensely grateful for all the support we have received — he said in an interview with the BBC.
The boys' aunt, Barbara Sastre, confirmed that the search has ended, and for the family, it is the closure of a dramatic chapter, although a huge void remains.
Still dangerous in Spain: people fear sudden floods
Since October 29, 2024, heavy rains and sudden floods have occurred in many regions of Spain. The regions of Valencia, the eastern part of the Castilla-La Mancha region, and Andalusia have been in the most difficult situations.
Despite the passage of time, Spaniards still fear sudden floods. Due to weather forecasts predicting heavy rainfall, thousands of people have been evacuated in Malaga. There are also disruptions in flights.
Streets turn into raging torrents. Services are appealing for caution — reports the Polish portal remiza.pl.
