A desperate three-day search for a missing boy in North Carolina has ended in tragedy.

Seven-year-old Liam Alexander King, believed to be nonverbal, was reported missing on September 7 in the area of Forest Hills Drive, according to the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office.

Helicopters, drones and K-9 units

When Liam was first reported missing three days earlier, officials quickly issued alerts. They explained that he was nonverbal and faced cognitive challenges, cautioning that he could run if approached. Authorities also noted his strong fascination with water, which added urgency to the search.

Teams from local, state, and federal agencies joined the search, deploying helicopters, drones, K-9 units, dive teams, and ground crews.

They scoured wooded terrain, nearby yards, and — most urgently — the ponds and waterways surrounding Liam’s home.

Despite the tireless efforts of deputies, volunteers, and first responders, search crews made the devastating discovery of Liam’s body on the morning of September 9 in a pond close to where he was last seen.

”We are absolutely devastated”

Shortly after, the sheriff’s office shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook, writing:

“We are absolutely devastated. I wish more than anything that we had a different outcome — for Liam’s family, for our community, and for the hundreds of first responders and volunteers who poured their hearts into finding him alive.”

For three days, the community rallied together, holding out hope as search teams combed the area. But instead of the reunion everyone prayed for, the search ended in sorrow.

“This loss is truly heartbreaking,” the sheriff’s office added. “We ask everyone to please continue to keep Liam’s family in your thoughts and prayers.”

Authorities confirmed the investigation into Liam’s death is ongoing.

Losing a child is something no parent should ever have to bear. My heart goes out to those who have gone through this.