by Worth County, GA – A Georgia man survived a terrifying incident after his ATV toppled into a pond, pinning him underwater, thanks to the quick thinking of three local teens. The accident occurred on October 17 in Worth County, while the man, identified as George Etheredge, was spraying weeds on his property.
Etheredge told a local news station that he was operating the ATV with a 25-gallon tank of weed killer when the vehicle slipped and flipped into a pond, trapping him beneath it. “The only thing that kept running through my mind was my two boys — I wanted to see them one more time,” Etheredge said.
Desperate Struggle for Survival
Pinned under the vehicle, Etheredge described being able to lift only half of his head above water to breathe and call for help. He added, “I could pick my head up just enough to breathe and scream for help, then go back under.” The ordeal lasted approximately 30 minutes, during which he remained trapped and vulnerable.
Three Teens Rush to the Rescue
Fortunately, three teenagers fishing nearby heard Etheredge’s calls. 14-year-old Bentley Culpepper, 16-year-old Griffin McDonald, and 15-year-old Colt Hartfield immediately ran to help.
“God put us there in the right time at the right place,” said Culpepper.
Griffin recalled the frightening scene: “It was scary just seeing him under there and yelling.” While the teens attempted to lift the ATV, it was too heavy for them to move. They ran to a neighbor for assistance.
Neighbor Joins Effort to Free Man
A local resident, Glenn, responded and jumped into the pond. Etheredge described the moment:
“With one try, no second grip, he flipped that four-wheeler off me like it was an air mattress.”
Thanks to the teens and Glenn’s quick response, Etheredge was safely freed from the pond. He referred to the teens as his “three little angels” and praised their bravery and presence of mind.
Injuries and Recovery
Etheredge sustained minor injuries, including a fractured shoulder and a disc injury, but is otherwise fully recovered. He expressed his gratitude to the teens and the community for their help during the life-threatening ordeal.
Community Celebrates Heroic Teens
The story has captured the attention of Worth County residents, who are praising the teens for their courage and quick action. Authorities and neighbors say the incident underscores the importance of staying alert and helping others in emergencies.
Share Your Thoughts: Have you witnessed or been involved in a heroic rescue like this? Comment below to celebrate the bravery of Bentley Culpepper, Griffin McDonald, and Colt Hartfield, and share your thoughts on community heroes in Worth County, Georgia.
