A heartbreaking search for a missing 5-year-old boy in Oregon ended in tragedy this week.
Joshua James McCoy, who had been missing since Saturday, November 9, was found dead on Tuesday, November 12, less than two miles from his home in Hauser, Oregon.
According to the Coos County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), McCoy’s body was discovered at around 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, after days of extensive search efforts by local authorities and volunteers.
“It is with immense sadness that we have to report that missing Joshua McCoy has been found deceased,” CCSO wrote in a statement.
McCoy, who had autism, was last seen by his mother on the afternoon of November 9 when she took a nap around 1:00 p.m.
Upon waking up at about 5:30 p.m., she discovered he was gone. Authorities immediately launched a search, with K-9 units, aerial support, and community volunteers joining in.
The boy’s body was found roughly 1.6 miles northwest of his home, and nearly two miles by road. Authorities have not released the cause of death, and they have confirmed that no one is currently in custody.
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They also mentioned that the pond on the property had been drained during the search, though nothing of significance was found.
Joshua, who responded to the names “Josh” or “Joshie,” was described as standing around 3 feet, 6 inches tall, weighing between 50 and 60 pounds, with brown shoulder-length hair and brown eyes.
As the investigation continues, local authorities expressed their gratitude for the community’s support, providing food and assistance to volunteers. “We have had amazing support from the community in feeding all of these volunteers,” CCSO said.
This tragic incident has left the community mourning the loss of a young life. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not ruled out any potential causes at this time.