BUCKEYE, Ariz. — A West Valley community is remembering a Rainbow Valley man who died after being swept away in last week's floodwaters.

Vincent Upton reportedly died from multiple blunt force injuries while attempting to cross a wash with running water. He was initially reported missing on Sunday and was found dead more than 24 hours later.

“He was just a bright light of joy that shined on everybody that was around him," Jayden Upton, his son, said.

Jayden Upton said his father had unwavering love for his community. That love was returned as his neighbors gathered to honor his life with a candlelight vigil.

“He would drop everything to help anybody that was in need of it," Jayden Upton said.

Vincent Upton was an ironworker. His colleague and friend, Ben Santana, said he worked hard

See Full Page