Miles McMahon: Child, 5, found dead in pond after going missing in Maryland

A five-year-old child was found dead in a pond after being reported missing on Sunday, officials said.

Miles McMahon, 5, who reportedly suffered from autism, was last seen on CCTV footage wearing a red T-shirt, no pants and shoes as he left his home and “jumped around his front yard,” the office said from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office.

But in the early hours of Monday, Miles’ body was discovered floating in a pond not far from his home in the Bannister neighborhood of Waldorf, Maryland.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

CCSO announced his death on Facebook, stating: “After hours of searching for Miles McMahon, 5 years old, he was unfortunately recently found in a pond not far from his home and has passed away.

“The pond and the surrounding area were our main focus.

“Although the pond had been searched by another unit earlier in the day, the Maryland State Police dive team responded this evening to check the pond again and found Miles.

“We are heartbroken, as are Miles’ family and all of you. Please keep Miles and his family, as well as all first responders and everyone who helped, in your thoughts and prayers. We will provide further updates as they become available.”

According to a news release, officers were called to a property on St. Pauls Drive at 11 a.m. Sunday on a report of a missing child.

Family members alerted police after searching for Miles but were unable to find him.

Authorities quickly set up a search area focusing on nearby ponds and bodies of water.

An extensive search involved search teams, drones, police, dive teams and dogs to locate the boy.

On Sunday, locals were asked to stay away from other people’s yards and the search area near St. Pauls Drive and Piney Church Road. They were also instructed to pay attention to their yards, ponds, trees, and any small hiding places and search them for Miles.

Police also asked anyone with home surveillance cameras to contact the sheriff’s office if they had anything of value on them that could help the search.

Concerned about Miles’ condition, police warned Sunday: “Miles may be hiding or afraid of the commotion.” For people who live in the area, please turn on the lights on your porch and backyard.

“If you are searching outside the area, please use caution and call 9-1-1 with appropriate information. We have a great community and it’s clear that everyone cares deeply. Please continue to share this post.”

The Independent has contacted the CCSO for further comment.