WORTH COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) – A Worth County man says divine timing — and the courage of three local boys — saved his life after a terrifying accident at his pond.

On Friday, Oct. 17, George Etheredge was spraying weeds around the water’s edge using a four-wheeler with a 25-gallon tank strapped to the back. In just seconds, the ATV slid too close to the bank and flipped, trapping him underneath in the water.

“I couldn’t move my arms or legs,” Etheredge said. “Only half my head was above water. I could pick my head up just enough to breathe and scream for help, then go back under.”

For nearly 30 minutes, he struggled to stay conscious — calling for help and praying someone would hear him.

Then, in what Etheredge calls a miracle, three young boys — Griffin McDonald, Bentley Culpepper and Colt Hartsfield — were fishing hundreds of yards away when they heard faint cries. They ran toward the sound and found Etheredge pinned under the four-wheeler.

Unable to lift the heavy machine, the boys sprinted to the nearest house for help. Neighbor Glenn Creamer and his family rushed to the scene.

“Glenn jumped into the pond and became Superman,” Etheredge said. “With one try, no second grip, he flipped that four-wheeler off me like it was an air mattress.”

Creamer pulled Etheredge safely to shore, moments before it might have been too late.

Etheredge was taken to the emergency room, suffering fractures in his shoulder and back, but is expected to recover fully.

He credits the boys, and the timing of their fishing trip, with saving his life.

“They’re nothing less than heroes,” Etheredge said. “Just more proof that God is always with us.”

Etheredge is now hoping the community can help recognize Glenn Creamer, Griffin McDonald, Bentley Culpepper and Colt Hartsfield for their bravery and quick action.

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