The search for a missing five-year-old boy with autism ended in tragedy when his body was found in a pond near his home in Waldorf, Maryland on Sunday night, October 13, 2024. Miles McMahon, who was nonverbal and had a love for dinosaurs and sea creatures, had slipped out of his house early that morning, prompting an intense search by law enforcement and the local community.
Miles, last seen on home security footage around 7 a.m., was dressed in a red T-shirt and had no shoes or pants. The footage showed him “leaving the house and skipping in his front yard,” according to a statement from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO). His family called 911 shortly after realizing he was missing, and police responded to the 1000 block of St. Pauls Drive residence by 11 a.m.
Officers immediately set up a perimeter around the area and began searching for bodies of water near the home. “We are heartbroken along with Miles’ family and all of you,” the sheriff’s office said, urging the community to “keep Miles and his family in your thoughts and prayers.”
The search spanned several hours and involved various agencies, including the Maryland State Police and local dive teams. They combed through nearby ponds, and with the assistance of drones and a helicopter, they searched fields, woods, and streams. Miles’ body was eventually found in a pond close to his house after being searched a second time. The authorities believe he may have wandered into the water soon after leaving home.
Neighbors gathered near the pond where Miles was found, leaving flowers, balloons, and teddy bears as a gesture of remembrance. Ashley Ulrich, whose daughter attended elementary school with Miles, shared how she had spent a restless night hoping for a better outcome, and once she heard the news early in the morning, she felt compelled to pay her respects. Even those who didn’t personally know Miles or his family joined in, offering their support. Many had participated in the search, which concluded on such a sorrowful note.
Dale Hughes, who has a five-year-old nonverbal autistic child, explained that he felt it was important to lend a hand and show support, imagining he would want the same response if his family were in a similar situation. Miles’ grandparents also expressed their gratitude to all who had assisted and shown compassion during the search.
The National Autism Association has stated that children with autism are at a higher risk of wandering and drowning incidents. According to Autism Speaks families are encouraged to take additional safety measures, such as teaching children about water dangers and considering swimming lessons to help mitigate risks.
As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Miles’ disappearance, they have not indicated whether any criminal charges will be filed. In the meantime, his family and the Waldorf community are left mourning the loss of a boy remembered for his joyful nature and bright smile.
