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Father of 2 children killed when vehicle was swept away in Tonto Basin creek speaks out

Daniel Rawlings thanked everyone who helped search for Willa and Colby, who both died last year after the vehicle they were in was swept away in Tonto Basin.

The father of two of the three children who died when the vehicle they were in was swept away in floodwaters in Tonto Basin late last year has spoken out. 

Daniel Rawlings, the father of 6-year-old Willa and 5-year-old Colby, spoke in front of the Show Low City Council. 

Rawlings was emotional, yet grateful during his comments. 

PREVIOUSLY: Residents in Tonto Basin call on lawmakers to build bridge, save lives

"We would like to say thank you," Rawlings said. 

"And as I feel thank you is not enough to express the love to me and my family, it is all I have to offer."

Rawlings thanked "all those who gave their time to join in the search for our precious Willa, those who prepared meals, those who helped raised funds, both businesses and individuals, those that welcomed us back home while standing in the freezing cold, those that gave freely of their time and talents, we say thank you. And may God bless you."

RELATED: New Arizona bill would set aside $20 million for Tonto Basin bridge construction

Willa and Colby, along with their 5-year-old cousin Austin, died after their vehicle was swept away in floodwaters in Tonto Basin after a rainstorm on Nov. 29.

The Tonto Creek was swollen with floodwaters after heavy rain on the day after Thanksgiving, causing a military-style truck with nine people in it to get stuck in the raging river.

RELATED: Body of 6-year-old swept away in Tonto Creek on Black Friday found at Roosevelt Lake

Austin's and Colby's bodies were found the next day; Willa's was found on the north side of Roosevelt Lake on Dec. 13 after a weeks-long search.

RELATED: Family and friends hold funeral for siblings swept away in Tonto Creek

"In our time of need, many people, churches, schools and businesses stepped up to help us carry the burden so we didn't have to do it alone," Rawlings said.

"We have felt the prayers on our behalf. I've been able to see the tender mercy of service giving."

RELATED: Tonto Basin residents asked for a bridge years before fatal flooding

RELATED: Federal funding to build bridge at Tonto Basin denied multiple times since 2010

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