Teen Hailed as Hero After Rescuing Drivers During Boca Raton Flooding

An 18-year-old from Boca Raton, Thomas Ruzzano, is being celebrated for his heroic efforts during a sudden flash flood that inundated the city. On Sunday night, after leaving a movie theater at Mizner Park with his girlfriend, Ruzzano encountered streets transformed into rivers, with vehicles stranded and drivers in distress. ([wptv.com](https://www.wptv.com/news/region-s-palm-beach-county/boca-raton/boca-raton-teen-helps-several-people-stranded-in-flash-flood?utm_source=openai))

 

"During the movie, we just heard lightning, pouring the whole movie and then on the way out, we’re in a flood," Ruzzano recounted. He observed cars backed up, the entire roundabout, parking garage, and even the theater's bathrooms submerged. ([wptv.com](https://www.wptv.com/news/region-s-palm-beach-county/boca-raton/boca-raton-teen-helps-several-people-stranded-in-flash-flood?utm_source=openai))

 

Without hesitation, Ruzzano waded through the rising waters to assist those trapped. He approached multiple vehicles, ensuring the occupants were safe. In one instance, he helped free an elderly man who was stuck in his seatbelt as water rose above his shoulders. After unbuckling him, Ruzzano and others guided the man to a nearby restaurant to ensure his well-being. ([wptv.com](https://www.wptv.com/news/region-s-palm-beach-county/boca-raton/boca-raton-teen-helps-several-people-stranded-in-flash-flood?utm_source=openai))

 

Reflecting on the night's events, Ruzzano humbly stated, "They were just very thankful, and they kept telling me how lucky they were to have me there." ([wptv.com](https://www.wptv.com/news/region-s-palm-beach-county/boca-raton/boca-raton-teen-helps-several-people-stranded-in-flash-flood?utm_source=openai))

 

The flash flood, which brought strong winds and lightning, left sections of Boca Raton submerged under water. According to Doppler Radar, the city experienced an estimated 8 inches of rain that Sunday. ([wptv.com](https://www.wptv.com/news/region-s-palm-beach-county/boca-raton/boca-raton-teen-helps-several-people-stranded-in-flash-flood?utm_source=openai))

 

Residents have expressed frustration over the city's preparedness for such events. Silvia Janson, a local resident, voiced her concerns: "The city needs to do something about it, what are they waiting for? When it’s in my house?" ([wflx.com](https://www.wflx.com/2025/10/27/stranded-frustrated-boca-raton-residents-urge-city-action-flooding-problems/?utm_source=openai))

 

City officials acknowledged the severity of the storm, noting that Boca Raton received upwards of nine inches of rain in just two hours. Zachary Bihr, the Public Works and Engineering director, stated, "Last night’s storm was extraordinary and intense, with some high-intensity thunderstorms." ([wflx.com](https://www.wflx.com/2025/10/27/stranded-frustrated-boca-raton-residents-urge-city-action-flooding-problems/?utm_source=openai))

 

In the face of adversity, Ruzzano's selfless actions serve as a testament to the resilience and compassion within the Boca Raton community.