Boy searches for Good Samaritan who helped save him from Payson floodwaters

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (KSAZ) - Playing in the park on a sunny summer morning is something Raiden Garcia-Baker loves doing.

He's a typical 8-year-old with tons of energy and has a story of survival that most would find hard to believe.

"Right here, right here over here a log hit me where I have my black eye," he said.

Raiden went with his father Saturday to Payson to celebrate a family birthday at a popular swimming hole. While there, a flood ripped through the area and swept them all away.

"It came as fast as flash," Raiden said. "I turned around and I just saw tons of wood rushing towards me."

Raiden somehow managed to save himself and once he was out of the water he was approached by a man.

"He started asking me questions," Raiden said. "I answered them for him. He just hung out for me until the safety patrol came."

Raiden's mom Tasha Baker posted on the Payson Yard Sale Facebook page to reach the man who helped her son.

"He's unbelievable," she said. "Thank you, I can't tell you how grateful I am to you."

This morning, she connected with the man named Kelly.

"My son hasn't stopped talking about him," she said. "He seems to be the real bright spot. He's actually given us a focal point after my son found out that his family didn't make it."

When they meet again, Raiden hopes to give his hero a big hug and a big thank you for standing by his side.

"I knew Kelly was going to be a nice man because he came to save us," he said. "If it weren't for him, I don't think I would be here right now."