Hero rescues West Seattle 11-year-old from surf-log accident

A West Seattle 11-year-old is at Harborview Medical Center tonight, recovering from a terrifying close call out on the ocean coast. Peter Dyer was rescued from beneath a half-ton log in the surf in Pacific Beach, thanks to help from Issaquah resident John Atzbach, who was nearby when Peter got trapped under the log. KING 5 told the story tonight; see it here, with video. We contacted Peter’s mom Toddy Dyer by e-mail; she tells WSB, “He is going to be 100% fine because of the actions by John. He saved Peter’s life. … We hope Pete comes home sometime this weekend. … I feel lucky, loved, blessed, and fortunate to have this ending. Peter fought that log, John did what he did, and I smile that there are people like John in this world.”

KJ September 2, 2011 (8:49 am)

What a scary situation! I’m so relieved to hear that everyone is okay. I’ve known Peter since before he could walk; I was his baby-sitter for several years and became very close with his whole family. I am so thankful for John and his quick thinking, for saving Peter’s life.

kim September 2, 2011 (8:54 am)

Oh, Toddy, how terrifying and how lucky!!!
Much love from Chloe and me. We are soooo thinking of you!

Julie E. September 2, 2011 (11:50 am)

Thank you, Mr. Atzbach!!!!

goodgraces September 2, 2011 (10:43 pm)

Our son Sam and Peter were on the same WSSC soccer team for several seasons and Peter’s father was one of the coaches. Their family is lovely and kind and I can’t imagine how horrifying this ordeal has been. Thank God for John — what a remarkable individual.

Our warm thoughts and grateful prayers are with you, Dyers!

— Thomas, Wendy, Sam & Abby

Elizabeth MacKenzie September 4, 2011 (3:44 pm)

I’m so glad to hear that Peter is okay. How scary for everyone. I hope to see you all at OLG Cross Country. -Elizabeth (Mother of Zoey,8th grade runner).

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