The search for a missing 8 year old boy took a tragic turn. The Greenville County Sheriff's Office says the body of 8 year old, Lionel Ramirez Cervantes was found around 3 PM, Thursday.
At a press conference yesterday Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis gave the timeline of events that unfolded when Lionel ran away from Bells Crossing Elementary School in Simpsonville. He said the Cervantes ran away from the playground aand his body was later found in a pond near the schools.
More than 50 first responders, Sheriff's Office K9 units and volunteers searched for Cervantes. His body was discovered in a pond just a short distance from the school. The coroner's office says there is no indication of foul play in the death which is still be investigated.
In a statement, district spokesperson Tim Waller said the school would be open today for students and staff only with grief councilors available.
Superintendent Dr. Burke Royster in a statement said "Words are not sufficient to describe this tragedy. Our hearts and prayers are with this family and school community."
He also thanked the Greenville County Sheriff's Office, emergency personel and district personel for their rapid response.
