Tragedy Strikes in Simpsonville
Simpsonville, S.C. — A terrible tragedy has hit the community after an 8-year-old boy was found dead in a pond after running away from his elementary school. The boy, identified as Lionel Ramirez Cervantes, had gone missing shortly after leaving his classroom at Bell’s Crossing Elementary on Thursday.
Details of the Incident
According to Greenville County Schools, Lionel was in a classroom with two classmates and three staff members when he suddenly ran out into the hallway. He went outside, crossed or squeezed through a fence, and headed into a field with tall grass where he quickly disappeared from view. School officials acted fast and called the police, who immediately initiated a search for the boy.
After several hours of searching, divers were able to locate Lionel’s body in a neighborhood pond, situated about 1,000 feet away from the school. This tragic news shocked the community, leading to a mix of sorrow and heartbreak.
Community Reaction
Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis expressed the community’s grief during a press conference, saying, “A lot of broken hearts in that school and community today.” The sheriff’s office also noted that Lionel may have had autism or another developmental disorder, indicating he might not have responded to typical verbal instructions. Authorities are currently investigating the events that led to Lionel leaving the school premises.
Support for the Family and School
In response to the incident, the principal of Bell’s Crossing Elementary, Chris Ross, shared in a statement, “This was our worst fear today, and we are grieving as a community. We are devastated to lose one of our children.” The school remained open the following day, and grief counselors have been made available for students and staff to help them cope during this difficult time.
The district emphasized that they are committed to providing any support needed for Lionel’s family, and they continue to seek answers regarding the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. An autopsy completed the day after the discovery revealed that Lionel had drowned, ruling his death accidental according to the Greenville County Coroner’s Office.
