Lifeguards searching for USC recruit

twodollarpistols · July 23, 2003

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. (AP) -- Lifeguards were searching the water southwest of Los Angeles late Tuesday for an 18-year-old Southern California football recruit who was reported missing a day earlier.

Huntington State Beach lifeguard Mike Broussard said the teenager was identified by his family as Drean Rucker. A prep All-American linebacker who graduated from Canyon Springs High in Moreno Valley this spring, Rucker was expected to report to the beginning of practice at USC on Aug. 5.

"We've been here two days, we will be here 10 days until he walks to us or someone brings him to us," said DeWayne White, Rucker's uncle. Authorities said Rucker was reported missing at 8:10 p.m. Monday night.

"The hearts and prayers of the Trojan Family go out to Drean's family at this difficult time," said USC coach Pete Carroll, who withheld further comment because of the ongoing search.