A 4-year-old Geary County boy who was reported missing Friday has died, according to the Geary County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said the child was autistic and non-verbal. He was reported missing Friday from the Swenson Road area in rural Geary County, prompting an extensive search involving numerous law enforcement agencies, first responders and community volunteers.
Search efforts continued through Friday night and into Saturday. Authorities said the boy was located during the early afternoon hours Saturday and transported to Stormont Vail Health Flint Hills Campus, where he was later pronounced dead.
In a news release, the Geary County Sheriff’s Office extended its condolences to the family and thanked the many agencies, volunteers and community members who assisted in the search.
“The overwhelming support demonstrated throughout this incident reflects the strength, compassion, and unity of our community,” the sheriff’s office said.
Officials have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding the child’s death, citing the ongoing investigation and respect for the family’s privacy.
