Body of Missing 4-Year-Old with Autism Found in Minnesota Creek

The body of a missing 4-year-old boy was discovered in a creek in Minnesota, concluding a tragic search that captivated the local community. The boy, who had autism and was non-verbal, was last seen leaving his apartment on Sunday morning. His body was found the following day, approximately 500 yards from his home, in Minnehaha Creek.

Authorities identified the child as Waeys Ali Mohamed. He was reported missing after he wandered away from his apartment building in Hopkins, a suburb located about ten miles southwest of Minneapolis. The search for Waeys involved a significant mobilization of resources, including local law enforcement, search and rescue teams, drone pilots, and hundreds of volunteers from the community. The search began shortly after he was last seen around 7:30 a.m. on June 9, 2024.

At a press conference, a police captain emphasized that the investigation is ongoing but indicated that the evidence suggests Waeys left the apartment on his own accord. "What I can say is we have evidence that Waeys left this apartment building on his own accord, and there is no room to try to blame anybody else right now," he stated. The captain also noted that the preliminary assessment points to accidental drowning as the likely cause of death, although the official determination will be made by the county medical examiner.

The community's response to the tragedy has been profound. Many volunteers who participated in the search were parents or individuals connected to the local autism community, highlighting the shared sense of vulnerability that families with autistic children often feel. One volunteer remarked, "Anyone who is a mother or has nieces or nephews or works in the school system, you know how vulnerable little guys are, and especially if they have sensory issues and nonverbal."

In the wake of this incident, a GoFundMe page was established to assist Waeys' mother with funeral expenses. The page described him as "a vibrant, funny, and kind-hearted young boy who brought joy to everyone around him." This sentiment was echoed by community members who expressed their sorrow and disbelief at the loss of such a young life. A small memorial was erected near the creek, where residents gathered to pay their respects.

This tragic event underscores a broader issue concerning the safety of children with autism. According to the National Centers for Missing and Exploited Children, drownings account for 84 percent of accidental deaths among autistic children. The organization reported that in 2021 alone, there were 286 cases of missing autistic children. This statistic highlights the heightened risks faced by children with autism, who may be drawn to water or have difficulty communicating their needs.

As the investigation continues, the community remains in mourning, grappling with the loss of a child whose life was just beginning. The police have assured the public that they will continue to seek answers while dispelling rumors circulating on social media about the circumstances surrounding Waeys' disappearance and death. The focus now is on honoring his memory and supporting his family during this incredibly difficult time.